Hummingbirds and How to Attract Them

Plants
Hummingbirds are best attracted to nectar-rich plants with bright red, orange or red-orange tubular-shaped blossoms. The brightest red flowers are perhaps the most effective, so you may want to begin with these. Hummers prefer single-flowered blossoms because they have more nectar than double-flowered ones.

By planting hardy trees, shrubs, vines and perennial flowers, you'll have a more permanent hummingbird garden. Select plants that grow to be 2-feet tall or taller. This gives hummers a more comfortable level to feed at. Birds will also visit hanging potted plants if the right blossoms are available.

When planting a garden or border for hummingbirds, it’s best to put vines, tall shrubs and tall flowering plants in back, then the medium-sized plants down to the shortest plants in front. To supply birds with food throughout spring, summer and early fall, select plants that bloom at different times of the year.

To help get you started, here is a list of flowering plants that attract hummingbirds.