There’s nothing quite like spotting a hummingbird hovering near your flowers on a warm summer morning. These tiny birds bring energy, color, and excitement to the garden. The best part? Attracting them is easier than many gardeners realize.
For gardeners across Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads, creating a hummingbird-friendly habitat can transform an ordinary landscape into a favorite stop for these fascinating pollinators. Here are five simple ways to invite hummingbirds into your outdoor space.
1. Put Out a Hummingbird Feeder
One of the quickest ways to attract hummingbirds is by hanging a feeder filled with nectar. Place feeders in a visible location near flowers, but away from heavy foot traffic where birds may feel disturbed.
A simple nectar solution made from four parts water and one part white sugar is all you need. Avoid using honey, artificial sweeteners, or red dye, as these can be harmful to hummingbirds.
To keep birds healthy, clean your feeder regularly and replace the nectar every few days, especially during hot Virginia summers.
2. Plant Flowers Hummingbirds Love
While feeders are helpful, hummingbirds naturally prefer nectar-rich flowers. Planting a variety of blooms ensures they have a reliable food source throughout the season.
Some favorite hummingbird plants for Coastal Virginia include:
- Salvia
- Bee Balm (Monarda)
- Cuphea
- Cardinal Flower
- Honeysuckle
- Petunias
- Lantana
Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to red, orange, pink, and purple blooms. Choose plants with different bloom times to provide nectar from spring through fall.
3. Add a Water Source
Hummingbirds need water for drinking and bathing, but they prefer moving water over traditional bird baths.
Consider adding:
- A small fountain
- A mister
- A dripper attachment
- A shallow water feature with gentle movement
The sound of moving water can help attract hummingbirds while also encouraging other beneficial birds and pollinators to visit your garden.
4. Create Shelter and Perching Spots
Hummingbirds spend much of their day resting between feeding sessions. Providing safe places to perch can make your yard even more inviting.
Small trees, shrubs, and garden structures offer excellent resting spots. Native plants and evergreen shrubs can also provide protection from wind, predators, and harsh weather.
If possible, leave a few open branches where hummingbirds can sit and survey their surroundings. You may be surprised how often you’ll spot them resting nearby.
5. Know When Hummingbirds Arrive in Virginia
Timing matters. In Coastal Virginia, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds typically begin arriving in April and remain through early October before migrating south.
Having feeders cleaned, filled, and ready before migration begins can increase your chances of attracting early visitors. Likewise, keeping feeders available into fall can help support birds as they prepare for their long journey south.
By planning ahead, you’ll provide an important food source exactly when hummingbirds need it most.
Turn Your Yard Into a Hummingbird Haven
Attracting hummingbirds doesn’t require a complete garden makeover. A combination of nectar-rich flowers, fresh water, shelter, and feeders can quickly transform your landscape into a destination for these remarkable birds.
Looking for the best hummingbird plants, feeders, and gardening supplies? Visit McDonald Garden Center and let our team help you create a backyard habitat hummingbirds will love all season long. To stay inspired and grow with us online, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to explore more gardening tips and ideas.
