By Stacy Pearman
The next few weeks will have us welcoming back our favorite little feathered friends, the hummingbirds! I have yet to meet a single person who does not find joy in watching the amazing hovering bird. Although the only variety that actually nests in Indiana is the Ruby Throated Hummingbird, many do pass through during migration season. Today we will touch on what you can plant to maximize your chances of keeping a few around the house.
Perennial plants and flowering shrubs are a great addition to any landscape. They come back every year, saving you time and money.
Sun loving plants:
- Coneflower
- Phlox
- Columbine
- Salvia
- Bee Balm
- Buddleia
- Hibiscus
- Weigela
Shade loving plants:
- Hostas
- Coral Bells
- Rhododendrons
These are all varieties that we have right here at the nursery. After our many deliveries this week, (plus another perennial delivery coming in April 5th), your options are plentiful!
Hanging baskets of annuals are always a good choice. Hang them near a window or by your porch so you can watch these little guys. Geraniums, Petunias, Snapdragons and Zinnia are all good options in the annual family. [Note: We will have hanging annual baskets and annual flowers available in our greenhouse later in April.]
It is important to know that male hummers are territorial. In order to host more than a single male, you may want to consider spreading your flowers around your property a bit. Did you know hummingbirds have the ability to see red much brighter than humans can? Although they are more attracted to red flowers, they will not pass by a potential meal just because it isn’t red. In fact, hummingbirds are the main pollinators for over 150 species of plants.
I hope I’ve sparked some hummer-loving landscape ideas for you and would love to hear what your local hummers favorite flowers are. My guy loves Snapdragons and Salvia.
