Tall Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds: The Ultimate Guide

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Are you looking to add some color and life in your garden? Do you want to attract hummingbirds that bring joy with their fluttering wings? If yes, then you are in the right place! In this article, we will introduce you to tall flowers that can help you create a hummingbird-friendly oasis.

Why choose tall flowers for hummingbirds?

Hummingbirds are attracted to nectar-rich flowers that they can easily feed on. Tall flowers provide an excellent opportunity as the flowers are usually larger, hold more nectar, and have longer stems. As such, these flowers offer a perfect perch and flight path for hummingbirds to feed and rest.

How to attract hummingbirds with tall flowers?

Attracting hummingbirds is no rocket science. All you need to do is select the right species of flowers that hummingbirds are naturally attracted to. You also need to put measures in place to help them identify your garden as a safe haven. These include providing feeders, water sources, and shelter.

What to consider when selecting tall flowers for hummingbirds?

When selecting tall flowers for hummingbirds, consider the following factors:

• Bloom colors that are attractive to hummingbirds
• Flower shapes that allow easy feeding and perching
• Blooming season and duration to ensure year-round feeding opportunities
• Nectar concentration
• Flower scents that can assist hummingbirds to locate the flowers

Now that you understand why tall flowers are ideal for hummingbirds and what to consider when choosing flowers let's explore some of the popular tall flowering plants that attract hummingbirds.

Tall flowering plants that attract hummingbirds

Cardinal flower

The cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a showy, red-flowering perennial plant. It is native to North and Central America and grows up to four feet tall. The flower produces a lot of nectar in long, tubular flowers that provide ample food for hummingbirds.

Agastache

Agastache, commonly known as hyssop, is a genus of aromatic flowering plants. The flowers come in various colors such as pink, red, blue, and purple. Agastache produces a lot of nectar and has a long blooming season from summer to early autumn.

Lupine

Lupine is an upright, perennial plant with spikes of brightly colored pea-like flowers. The plant can grow up to five feet high and provides ample landing space for hummingbirds. Lupines bloom in summer and require well-draining soils.

Foxglove

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a biennial plant that produces tall spikes of bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, white, and yellow. Hummingbirds flock to foxgloves to feed on its nectar. However, the plant is toxic and should be grown with caution.

Salvia

Salvia is a colorful perennial plant that attracts hummingbirds with its long tubular flowers. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer and continues until the first frost. Salvia requires well-drained soil and regular pruning to encourage more flowers.

Gardening tips for attracting hummingbirds with tall flowers

Now that you know some of the tall flowers that attract hummingbirds let's explore some tips to help you attract these beautiful creatures to your garden.

Plant in groups and staggered heights

Plant tall flowers in clusters, so hummingbirds can easily spot them. Also, consider planting the flowers at different heights, which forces the birds to use various flight paths, giving you a better view of their acrobatics.

Provide feeders and water sources

Hummingbirds feed on nectar but also require other food sources such as insects to get protein. Set up feeders with nectar solutions, and ensure that the solution is fresh and free from mold or fermentation. Also, provide a shallow saucer of water to meet their hydration needs.

Select flowers that bloom at different times

Select flowers that bloom throughout the year, providing a continuous supply of nectar. This means there will be no gap periods, ensuring that hummingbirds have enough food throughout the year.

With these gardening tips, creating a hummingbird-friendly oasis lies within your grasp.

Attracting hummingbirds with tall flowers is an excellent way to bring life and color to your garden. By selecting the right species of plants and providing the necessary resources, you can create a hummingbird paradise. Hummingbirds are not only beautiful but also beneficial for pollination, making them essential residents of any garden.

So go ahead, plant those tall flowers, and let nature take its course!

FAQ

What makes tall flowers attractive to hummingbirds?

Tall flowers have long stems and large flowers that can hold more nectar. They also provide excellent perch and flight paths for hummingbirds to feed and rest.

Can I attract hummingbirds with other types of plants?

Yes. Hummingbirds are attracted to a variety of colorful flowers, including small and creeping plants. The trick is choosing those with the right bloom colors, shapes, nectar concentration, and fragrances.

How often should I water my hummingbird plants?

Hummingbird plants require frequent watering, especially during dry seasons. Watering thoroughly once or twice every week should be sufficient.

Do I need to use special fertilizer for hummingbird plants?

No. Hummingbird plants require regular fertilization just like any other plant. However, it would help if you used organic or slow-release fertilizers to avoid over-fertilizing and burning their roots.

How can I prevent pests from eating my hummingbird plants?

Pests such as aphids and spider mites can attack hummingbird plants. You can control these pests by practicing good garden hygiene, using insecticides (only when necessary), and introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs.

Can I grow these flowers in containers?

Yes. Some tall flowers such as foxglove and Salvia can thrive well in containers. Select large pots and use well-draining soils to help aerate roots.

How long do hummingbirds stay around flowering plants?

Hummingbirds will stick around the flowers as long as there is nectar. Once they have depleted the food source, they fly to find another source.

What time of day is best for watching hummingbirds?

Hummingbirds are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. This is when they go out and search for food while avoiding hot temperatures.

Do I need to provide shelter for hummingbirds in my garden?

You don't need to put up hummingbird houses or shelters as they usually build their nests high in trees or shrubs. However, you can landscape your garden to include trees and shrubs that create a natural habitat for these birds.

Are there any plants that repel hummingbirds?

No scientific evidence supports this claim. Hummingbirds are known to avoid plants with bitter foliage such as yucca and heuchera, but they will not stay away from them entirely.