Are you a hummingbird enthusiast looking to attract these beautiful creatures to your garden? You may have heard that lavender is a popular plant among hummingbirds, but is it true? In this article, we will explore the relationship between hummingbirds and lavender and provide tips on how to create a hummingbird-friendly garden.
Lavender is a popular plant known for its fragrant flowers and soothing properties. It is also a favorite among gardeners looking to attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. But do hummingbirds really like lavender? While there is no definitive answer, many hummingbird enthusiasts have reported seeing hummingbirds feeding on lavender nectar. In this article, we will examine the appeal of lavender to hummingbirds and the best ways to incorporate it into your garden.
If you are interested in creating a hummingbird-friendly garden, there are several things you can do to attract these tiny birds. In addition to planting lavender, you can also incorporate other nectar-rich plants such as salvia, bee balm, and penstemon. Providing a source of water, such as a bird bath or fountain, can also help attract hummingbirds to your garden. By following these tips, you can create a welcoming habitat for hummingbirds and other pollinators in your backyard.
Key Takeaways
- Lavender is a popular plant among hummingbird enthusiasts, but there is no definitive answer as to whether hummingbirds like it.
- In addition to planting lavender, incorporating other nectar-rich plants and providing a source of water can help attract hummingbirds to your garden.
- Creating a hummingbird-friendly garden is a great way to support these important pollinators and add beauty to your backyard.
The Appeal of Lavender to Hummingbirds
Lavender is a popular garden plant known for its beautiful purple flowers and sweet fragrance. While many people enjoy growing lavender for its aesthetic appeal, hummingbirds are also attracted to this plant. Here are some reasons why lavender is appealing to hummingbirds.
Color and Attraction
Hummingbirds are attracted to bright and bold colors, especially shades of red, pink, and purple. Lavender flowers are known for their vibrant purple color, making them an attractive option for hummingbirds. The tubular shape of lavender flowers also makes them ideal for hummingbirds, as the birds can easily insert their long beaks to sip nectar.
Nectar and Nutrition
Hummingbirds need a lot of nectar to fuel their high metabolism, and they are always on the lookout for nectar-rich flowers. Lavender flowers produce nectar, which is a sweet liquid that hummingbirds feed on. The nectar of lavender flowers is high in sugar content, providing the birds with the energy they need to fly and forage.
In conclusion, if you are looking to attract hummingbirds to your garden, planting lavender is a great option. The vibrant purple color and nectar-rich flowers make lavender a popular choice for hummingbirds.
Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Garden
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, you need to create an environment that is both welcoming and suitable for them. Here are some tips to help you create a hummingbird-friendly garden.
Plant Diversity and Selection
Hummingbirds are attracted to a variety of plants, so it’s important to have a diverse selection in your garden. Consider planting a mix of annuals and perennials, as well as native plants. Some great options for a hummingbird garden include bee balm, honeysuckle, columbine, and of course, lavender.
When selecting plants, it’s important to consider their growing conditions. Lavender, for example, prefers full sun and well-drained soil. If you’re planting lavender in partial shade or in an area with poor drainage, it may not thrive and may not be as attractive to hummingbirds.
Garden Conditions and Maintenance
In addition to plant selection, it’s important to maintain your garden to keep it attractive to hummingbirds. Keep the garden free of weeds and debris, and water regularly during dry periods. If you’re planting lavender, be sure to prune it regularly to keep it healthy and promote new growth.
Another important consideration is the use of pesticides. Hummingbirds are sensitive to chemicals, so it’s best to avoid using pesticides in your garden. Instead, opt for natural pest control methods, such as companion planting or handpicking pests.
By creating a diverse and well-maintained garden with plants that hummingbirds love, you can attract these beautiful creatures to your yard and enjoy their presence all season long.
Complementary Plants for Hummingbird Gardens
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, then you should consider planting complementary plants that will provide them with food and shelter. Here are some of the best plants to include in your hummingbird garden:
Flowers and Shrubs
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Lavender: Although hummingbirds are not known to feed on lavender, it can attract other pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which can in turn attract hummingbirds. Lavender also provides a great source of nectar for other species.
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Cardinal Flower: This plant is a favorite of hummingbirds due to its bright red color and long tubular flowers that are perfect for their long beaks. It is also a great source of nectar for other pollinators.
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Lupine: This plant is a great source of nectar for hummingbirds and other pollinators. It also provides a great source of food for caterpillars, which can attract other species to your garden.
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Salvia: Hummingbirds love salvia due to its long tubular flowers and high nectar content. It is also a great source of food for other pollinators.
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Fuchsia: This plant is a favorite of hummingbirds due to its bright, pendulous flowers that are perfect for their long beaks. It is also a great source of nectar for other pollinators.
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Bushes: Shrubs such as azaleas, rhododendrons, and butterfly bushes can provide a great source of food and shelter for hummingbirds. They also attract other pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Vines and Trees
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Trumpet Vine: This vine is a favorite of hummingbirds due to its bright, trumpet-shaped flowers that are perfect for their long beaks. It is also a great source of nectar for other pollinators.
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Trees: Trees such as dogwood, redbud, and cherry can provide a great source of food and shelter for hummingbirds. They also attract other pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
In conclusion, planting complementary plants in your hummingbird garden can attract not only hummingbirds but also other pollinators. By providing a variety of food sources and shelter, you can create a thriving ecosystem that benefits both wildlife and your garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top plants known to attract hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers with nectar. Some of the top plants known to attract hummingbirds include bee balm, cardinal flower, columbine, and salvia.
Which purple flowering plants are favorites of hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are attracted to purple flowers and some of their favorites include butterfly bush, petunias, and verbena.
Can lavender be included in a garden to attract hummingbirds?
While lavender is not a top choice for hummingbirds, they may still visit lavender flowers for nectar. However, if you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, it’s best to plant other flowers that are more attractive to them.
What are the preferred flowers of a bee hummingbird?
Bee hummingbirds are the smallest hummingbirds and are found only in Cuba. They prefer small, tubular flowers such as those found on the firecracker plant, shrimp plant, and cigar plant.
Are there specific smells that hummingbirds avoid?
Hummingbirds have a poor sense of smell and are not deterred by any particular scent. However, they may avoid flowers that have a strong, unpleasant odor.
What common garden plants are least attractive to hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are not attracted to plants with dull or white flowers. Some common garden plants that are least attractive to hummingbirds include impatiens, marigolds, and zinnias.