Introduction
Hummingbirds are magnificent and fascinating creatures, known for their incredibly fast wingbeats and colorful plumage. These small birds are also known for their love of nectar, which is found naturally in flowers. While hummingbirds are often seen fluttering around gardens and parks, many people enjoy attracting them to their homes with a backyard oasis filled with potted plants that hummingbirds love.
What Potted Plants Do Hummingbirds Like?
Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers, particularly those which are red, orange or yellow, as these colors closely resemble the natural nectar found in flowers. Potted plants that hummingbirds love include:
Fuchsia
Geraniums
Salvia
Trumpet Vine
Petunias (especially those with tubular flowers)
Bee Balm
Butterfly Bush
Why Do Hummingbirds Love Certain Flowers?
Hummingbirds have a unique physiology that allows them to fly and hover in a way that few other birds can. Their wings move at an incredible rate of around 50 beats per second, which allows them to hover in place while feeding on the nectar of flowers. This high level of activity requires a lot of energy, which is where the nectar comes in. The nectar found in flowers is high in sugar and provides hummingbirds with the energy they need to keep up their fast-paced lifestyle.
Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Garden
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, there are a number of things you can do:
Plant brightly colored flowers that hummingbirds love
Provide a variety of flowers that bloom at different times of the year
Place your potted plants near a water source, such as a bird bath or fountain
Hang hummingbird feeders filled with nectar
Avoid using pesticides or other chemicals in your garden
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are amazing creatures that bring beauty and excitement to any garden. With a little knowledge and effort, anyone can create a backyard oasis filled with potted plants that hummingbirds love. By providing these beautiful birds with a variety of colorful flowers and nectar, you can be sure to attract them to your home and enjoy the amazing sight of these little marvels in flight.