Welcoming hummingbirds into your garden is a delightful way to enjoy the beauty of these tiny, vibrant birds. To keep them coming back, it’s essential to maintain clean feeders and provide the right native plants. Here’s a guide on the best practices for taking care of your hummingbird feeders and suggestions for native Long Island plants that will attract and nourish these enchanting creatures.
Best Practices for Hummingbird Feeder Care
Choose the Right Feeder: Select feeders that are easy to disassemble and clean. Avoid feeders with yellow parts, as they can attract bees and wasps.
Use the Right Nectar: Make your own nectar by mixing 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water. Boil the mixture to dissolve the sugar, let it cool, and fill your feeder. Avoid using honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your feeders at least once a week, and more often in hot weather, to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Use a mild soap solution and a bottle brush, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Change Nectar Frequently: Replace the nectar every 3-5 days, and more frequently during hot weather. Fresh nectar prevents fermentation, which can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Placement Matters: Hang your feeders in a shaded area to slow the fermentation process of the nectar. Place them near flowering plants to provide a natural feeding option.
Prevent Pests: Use ant moats or traps to keep ants away from the feeders. To deter bees and wasps, choose feeders with bee guards and avoid placing feeders in direct sunlight.
Monitor Activity: Keep an eye on the feeders for any signs of contamination or decreased hummingbird activity, and adjust your maintenance routine accordingly.
Native Long Island Plants That Attract Hummingbirds
Enhance your garden’s appeal to hummingbirds by planting native flowers that provide natural nectar sources. Here are some native Long Island plants that hummingbirds love:
Eastern Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): This early-blooming perennial has striking red and yellow flowers that attract hummingbirds in the spring.
Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens): A beautiful vine with tubular red or orange flowers that provide a rich nectar source for hummingbirds.
Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.): These perennials have small, bell-shaped flowers on tall stalks, perfect for hummingbirds to sip from.
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma): Known for its vibrant red, pink, or purple blooms, bee balm is a magnet for hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis): This plant’s striking red flowers are a favorite among hummingbirds and bloom in mid to late summer.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Another member of the Monarda family, wild bergamot has lavender-pink flowers that attract hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica): With its tall spikes of blue flowers, this plant provides late-season nectar for hummingbirds.
Scarlet Sage (Salvia coccinea): This annual or short-lived perennial produces bright red flowers that hummingbirds adore.
By combining well-maintained hummingbird feeders with a variety of native plants, you can create a welcoming haven for these delightful birds. Not only will you enjoy their vibrant presence, but you'll also be supporting the local ecosystem.
Conclusion
Taking care of your hummingbird feeders and planting native Long Island flora are essential steps in creating a hummingbird-friendly garden. By following these best practices and incorporating these recommended plants, you'll attract and nourish these fascinating creatures, making your garden a vibrant and dynamic space.
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