CC on Hummingbirds

My turn…

I got interested in hummingbirds about 10 years ago when I spotted a pure white (albino) hummer in my yard. Of course, I had to “Google” it and found out that although rare, they do exist. I started investing in hummingbird feeders and planting their favorite flowering plants (they LOVE Black & Blue Salvia). I would get a Trumpet vine for them but the vines get pretty big and I have nowhere to put one. I have learned a lot from the little guys including:
• Get feeders that are easy to clean. In hot weather, they should be cleaned and re-filled every 4-5 days. We sell nectar here but sugar water works too.
• Watch for them at dawn and dusk – the most active feeding times. They will feed throughout the day as well.
• I bought a ‘mister’ that sprays a very light water mist which they enjoy.
• Although we only get one species in this part of the country (the Ruby Throated) they have different personalities – we even name them (Tiny Dancer is my favorite, she will “dance” in front of our porch screens (fly up, down, and in zigzag and cross patterns looking in at us.)
• They are very territorial – it’s a good idea to have feeders and plants on opposite sides of the house to avoid conflicts. It is fun to watch the competition among them as they chase each other away from food sources.
• Try not to use pesticides near their feeding areas – not only are hummers fragile, they eat the small insects.

So, get started and I promise you will be hooked! We have everything you need here at the Garden Center.

Thanks for listening!
CC Geist
Landscape office manager