As hummingbirds return north from their winter migration, they seek quiet, resource-filled backyards to rest in. But, you don't need loads of space to create a sanctuary for them – you can simply create a hummingbird planter.
By using the right pot plants, adding a water feature, and placing your planter correctly, you can attract hummingbirds to your yard, even if you only have a patio or balcony to work with. It's all about providing everything these charming birds need in one contained area, which is both invaluable to them and space-saving in your garden.
The best part is there are only three steps to create one – here, the experts share how.
How to Create a Hummingbird Planter
Before jumping in with what to include in your hummingbird planter, you need the right vessel.
You can use any type of planter in your container garden, but a medium-large one will give you more room to work with.
The most important factor to consider is the support the pot provides the plants you choose to grow, so they can thrive and attract hummingbirds.
Those made from natural materials with drainage holes are often best, ensuring optimal moisture management and blending into the yard's landscape effortlessly.
'Choose a lighter colored container (to lessen heat absorption) that is large enough to accommodate the deeper root systems of native plants, approximately 16”,' says Mary Phillips from the National Wildlife Federation.
These terracotta clay pots from Wayfair are a great choice.
1. Plant Up Tubular Blooms
While we may think of blooming trees and cascading climbers as the best plants for hummingbirds, there are plenty of container plants that provide nectar-rich sources.
'Some container plants to choose include bee balm, salvia, zinnias (which you can grow with these Burpee zinnia seeds), and coral bells,' says Lindsey Chastain, homesteader and founder at The Waddle and Cluck.
'All of these come in bright colors and have easy access for the hummingbird's beak,' she explains.
Of course, you can also create a vertical garden in a container using trellis inserts (or this metal obelisk from Wayfair) and climbing vines.
'I recommend coral honeysuckle (which is available to purchase on Amazon). This perennial vine will provide height to the container, and the tubular red and yellow blooms are a favorite of hummingbirds,' says Mary.
'Add a 3-4ft trellis to provide support for the coral honeysuckle and a place for hummingbirds to perch and rest,' she advises.
You may find that a planter box with a trellis (like this wooden one from Amazon) makes growing climbers in a container easier. Plus, they provide more room for planting.
2. Add a Water Source
Just like other birds that visit your yard, hummingbirds look for fresh water sources to clean themselves and drink from. But, they don't use bird baths – instead hummingbirds prefer mist.
'Hummingbirds don't usually visit stagnant bird baths. They prefer moving water, so adding a fine mister to your bird bath nearby to your container,' Lindsey recommends.
Alternatively you can place a shallow dish of water in your container. Adding a water pump will create a fountain effect to provide the mist these birds seek.
This bird bath fountain on Amazon is easy to install.
3. Place Your Container Near Shelter
The final step to creating a hummingbird planter is placing it correctly. Even if you have the best plants for them growing in it, putting it in the wrong spot can hinder your success in attracting them.
'You want some type of shelter nearby like bushes, shrubs, or trees,' says Lindsey.
'Having shelter nearby while the birds are getting nectar helps them feel safe. They have somewhere to escape quickly if a predator comes or something startles them,' she explains.
Placing your container beneath a canopy of trees that attract hummingbirds, for example, can make it a more appealing spot for these birds. Likewise, placing it at least a few feet away from your home will reduce the likelihood of them becoming startled by human activity.
Ultimately, you need your hummingbird planter to be somewhere quiet and undisturbed to best encourage these birds.
Mary also notes to check the requirements of the plants you're growing:
'Most hummingbird-attracting plants thrive in full sun (at least six hours of direct sunlight per day).
'Be sure to also place the container in a location where you can easily observe the hummingbirds that visit!' she adds.
What to Shop
This hummingbird nectar is a special blend to provide these birds with energy and nutrients. It's already mixed with water, ready to put in your hummingbird feeder.
This hummingbird feeder is red in color to attract these charming birds. It has multiple feeding ports and is transparent so you can see when to refill with nectar.
Hang these metal hummingbird perches in trees to provide a rest point for them. You get two in this pack, each with pretty decorative features.
If you're looking for some more plants to add to your yard for hummingbirds, then the Temple of Bloom Seven-Sons is a great choice. It provides sturdy branches for hummingbird nests, as well as late season blooms for nectar.
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