HUMBIRDS

Did You Know? …

While you may know Hummingbirds hover in mid-air, did you know the Hummingbird is the only bird that can fly backwards and at speeds up to -- and exceeding 35 mph?  Like the Honey Bee, these birds love nectar, the sweet liquid inside certain flowers.  In fact, these little dynamos need to consume their entire body weight in nectar daily just to keep their hyper-metabolisms running.

Here are the Top Five Favorite Nectar-Producing Flowers you can grow in your garden to keep your fun and fascinating feathered friends flying around your home:

1. BATFACE PLANT (Cuphea Llavea)
2. PETUNIAS (Petunia Hybrids … not the pig!)
3. CARDINAL FLOWER (Lobelia Cardinalis)  Recommend a Trellis
4. ROSE OF SHARON (Hibiscius Syriacus)   Recommend an Arbor
5. SNAP DRAGON ANTHIRRHINUM (Spp & Hybrids, Tall Variety is best!)

Also Hibiscus, Gladiolas, and trumpet flowers such as Mandevilla and Morning Glory.

My adorable Humbirds love our tall and bountiful Gladiolas to slurp on, and we encourage you to plant these type of flowers not only for the love of Hummingbirds, but for our Honey bee crop as well. Don’t forget to beautify your gardens with yard art spikes, unique ornamental birdhouses or other seasonal outdoor décor.  Enjoy!