The Secret to Attracting More Hummingbirds to Your Garden

Written By Marah Friedman

You usually hear them before you see them. If you've ever wondered how to attract more hummingbirds, why they chase each other, or why they return to the same spot every year, you're in the right place. I'll also share my favorite hummingbird swing and the simple nectar recipe I use.

My Favorite Accessory: A Hummingbird Swing

One of my favorite things I've added to the garden is a hummingbird swing. Hummingbirds naturally look for small branches where they can rest, keep an eye on their territory, and take a break between feeding. A hummingbird swing gives them another place to perch, and it's so much fun to watch them use it throughout the day.

Click photo for the link

They Have Incredible Memories

For such tiny birds, hummingbirds have remarkable memories.

Once they find a reliable food source, they remember exactly where it is and will return to it again and again. Many even choose the same favorite perch every evening before settling down for the night.

If a hummingbird keeps visiting your garden, there's a good chance it's because it remembers it as a safe, dependable place to eat.

Why do Hummingbirds chase each other?

Why do Hummingbirds chase each other? Hummingbirds are surprisingly territorial. A hummingbird may spend all day visiting flowers and feeders, so when another bird shows up, it often tries to defend that food source.They're not being mean. They're protecting their food.

If one hummingbird seems to guard your feeder, there's an easy solution. Hang multiple feeders around your yard, preferably in different areas where they can't easily see one another. This gives several hummingbirds a chance to feed without one bird trying to protect every feeder.

My Dream Feeders:

Homemade Hummingbird Nectar

Making nectar at home is simple, inexpensive, and one of the best ways to help hummingbirds. P.S. You will have to invest in a lot of sugar for the season!

Plant Flowers They Love

While feeders are wonderful, planting nectar-rich flowers gives hummingbirds a natural food source and encourages them to return throughout the season.

Some of my favorites include:

  • Salvia

  • Bee balm

  • Coral honeysuckle

  • Trumpet vine

  • Cardinal flower

  • Petunias

The more blooms you have throughout the season, the happier your hummingbird visitors will be.

Marah Friedman
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