Hummingbirds & Feeders

Multiple pictures of hummingbirds eating from flowers and hummingbird feeders with the words

Hummingbird Habitats: Bring the Flutters to Your Garden

Hummingbirds are enchanting, fast-flying creatures that can transform your backyard into a vibrant, lively space. With just a few thoughtful steps, you can create a hummingbird-friendly habitat that provides nourishment, shelter, and enjoyment for both you and your winged visitors.

Why Attract Hummingbirds?Hummingbird flying near purple flowers with pink flowers in the background

  • Master Pollinators: With their long beaks and small size, hummingbirds can reach flowers other birds can’t, helping plants reproduce and thrive.
  • Natural Pest Control: These tiny birds eat small insects like gnats and aphids, often catching them mid-flight.
  • Incredible Metabolism: Hummingbirds need to eat every 10–15 minutes and can consume twice their body weight in nectar daily. By providing them with food, you’ll help support their high-energy lifestyle.

Creating a Hummingbird Habitat

1. Hummingbird FeedersBlue and yellow blown glass hummingbird feeder.

  • Choose feeders with red accents to attract hummingbirds.
  • Hang at least two feeders in separate locations to reduce territorial disputes.
  • Maintain feeders by cleaning them regularly with a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water, rinsing thoroughly before refilling.

2. Hummingbird Nectar

Homemade nectar is simple, safe, and cost-effective:

  • Recipe: Mix 4 parts hot water to 1 part white granulated sugar. Boil for 2 minutes and let cool.
  • Tips: Avoid honey, raw sugar, or red dye, which can harm hummingbirds. Hang feeders in the shade to keep nectar fresh and prevent fermentation.

3. Plants That Attract Hummingbirdscuphea hummingbirds lunch

Incorporate nectar-rich plants to complement your feeders and create a natural, balanced habitat:

  • Choose plants with tubular flowers in vibrant colors like red, orange, and pink.
  • Include plants that collect water on their leaves, providing natural bathing spots.
  • Add perching plants to give hummingbirds places to rest and survey their territory.
View Plant List

Maintaining Your Hummingbird Habitat

  • Nectar Maintenance: Replace the nectar every 5–7 days in cooler months and every 2–3 days in warmer weather. Always replace nectar before it turns cloudy.
  • Cleanliness: Keep feeders clean to prevent mold and bacteria.
  • Placement: Hang feeders and plant flowers in partially shaded areas to provide a comfortable environment.

Enhance Your Garden with Hummingbirdscupertino store baby hummingbirds

At SummerWinds Nursery, we’re here to help you create the perfect hummingbird sanctuary. Whether you’re selecting feeders or designing your garden with hummingbird-friendly plants, our Trusted Garden Advisors will provide expert guidance and top-quality products.

Stop by your local SummerWinds Nursery today and let us help you transform your yard into a haven for these enchanting birds. Together, we can make your garden come alive with the flutters of hummingbird wings!