Attract Hummingbirds with These Gorgeous Flowers for Hanging Baskets

Flowers For Hanging Baskets That Attract Hummingbirds

Are you a bird lover looking to attract hummingbirds to your garden? If so, you've come to the right place! Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored flowers that are rich in nectar. By planting the right flowers in your hanging baskets, you can create a beautiful and inviting environment for these tiny birds. In this blog post, we'll explore the best flowers for hanging baskets that attract hummingbirds.

Why Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden?

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that add life and energy to any garden. They're also great pollinators, helping to increase the yield of your fruits and vegetables. By attracting hummingbirds to your garden, you can create a vibrant and diverse ecosystem that supports a range of plant and animal life.

The Best Flowers for Hanging Baskets That Attract Hummingbirds

Here are some of the best flowers for hanging baskets that attract hummingbirds:

1. Fuchsia

Fuchsias are one of the most popular plants for attracting hummingbirds. With their bright flowers and long tubular blooms, fuchsias are a favorite among hummingbirds. They're easy to care for and make excellent hanging basket plants.

How to Care for Fuchsia Plants

Fuchsias prefer well-draining soil and partial shade. They need to be watered regularly but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Fuchsias also benefit from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer.

2. Petunias

Petunias are another great choice for hanging baskets that attract hummingbirds. They come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, and white, making them a versatile addition to any garden.

How to Care for Petunia Plants

Petunias prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They should be watered regularly but avoid getting the leaves wet as this can lead to fungal diseases. Petunias also benefit from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer.

3. Salvia

Salvias are a popular choice for attracting hummingbirds due to their bright red and blue flowers. They're easy to care for and make an excellent addition to any hanging basket.

How to Care for Salvia Plants

Salvias prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They need to be watered regularly but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Salvias also benefit from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer.

4. Lobelia

Lobelia is a delicate plant with tiny flowers that come in shades of blue, pink, and white. It's a favorite among hummingbirds and makes a beautiful addition to any hanging basket.

How to Care for Lobelia Plants

Lobelia prefers partial shade and well-draining soil. It needs to be watered regularly but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Lobelia also benefits from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer.

5. Bee Balm

Bee balm is a native North American plant that produces bright red or pink flowers that hummingbirds love. It's also a popular choice for attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.

How to Care for Bee Balm Plants

Bee balm prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It needs to be watered regularly but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Bee balm also benefits from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer.

Other Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds

In addition to planting the right flowers, there are other things you can do to attract hummingbirds to your garden. Here are some tips:

1. Provide Food and Water

Hummingbirds need a constant supply of nectar to fuel their high metabolism. You can provide this by setting up a hummingbird feeder in your garden. Make sure to clean the feeder regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

2. Create a Safe Environment

Hummingbirds are vulnerable to predators, so it's important to create a safe environment for them. This means avoiding the use of pesticides and providing cover in the form of shrubs and trees.

3. Provide Nesting Material

Hummingbirds build small nests using spiderwebs and plant material. You can help them out by providing nesting material such as cotton or natural fibers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if my hanging basket is suitable for hummingbirds?

A: Look for bright, tubular flowers that produce a lot of nectar. Fuchsias, petunias, salvias, lobelia, and bee balm are all great choices.

2. How often should I water my hanging basket?

A: Hanging baskets dry out quickly, so they need to be watered frequently. Check the soil daily and water when the top inch feels dry.

3. How do I keep bees away from my hummingbird feeder?

A: Bees are attracted to the sweet nectar in hummingbird feeders. You can keep them away by using a feeder with bee guards or by adding a small amount of vinegar to the nectar.

4. Can I use artificial flowers in my hanging basket?

A: While artificial flowers may look nice, they don't produce nectar and won't attract hummingbirds.

5. What should I do if I find a baby hummingbird?

A: If you find a baby hummingbird that has fallen out of its nest, place it back in the nest if possible. If the nest is damaged or missing, you can make a temporary nest using a small container lined with soft materials. Contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center for further advice.

By planting the right flowers in your hanging baskets and providing a safe environment for hummingbirds, you can create a beautiful and inviting garden that supports a range of plant and animal life. Happy gardening!