10 Patio Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds

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Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that bring a unique charm to any garden or patio. If you're interested in attracting these beautiful birds to your patio, planting flowers that they love is the way to go. Here are ten of the best patio flowers that attract hummingbirds.

1. Fuchsia

Fuchsia's bright blossoms with their vibrant colors make them a popular favorite among hummingbirds. They're relatively easy to maintain and can be grown in hanging baskets as well.

Tips for Planting Fuchsia

• Fuchsia thrives in moist, well-drained soil.
• Place them in a partially shaded area where they can get some sun but not too much.
• Make sure not to over-water as they may develop root rot.

2. Salvia

Salvia is a favorite among hummingbirds, and if you already have it in your garden, you'll notice hummingbirds hovering around its nectar-rich flowers.

Growing and Maintenance of Salvia

• Salvia grows best in full sunlight and well-draining soil.
• Cut back the plant after flowering to encourage healthy regrowth.
• Water consistently, making sure not to let the soil dry out completely.

3. Bee Balm

Bee Balm's fragrant blooms with their colorful appearance make them one of the best flowers to attract hummingbirds. They are also easy to grow and maintain.

Tips on How to Grow Bee Balm

• Bee Balms grow best in fertile, well-draining soil.
• Plant them in a well-watered and sunny location.
• Regularly prune your bee balm plant after flowering to encourage better airflow and reduce any diseases.

4. Petunias

Petunias are perfect for patio pots or hanging baskets, and they're beautiful to look at with their vibrant, large blooms.

Key Tips for Planting and Caring for Your Petunias

• Petunias thrive in sunlight with moderate watering.
• If you intend to plant them directly into the soil, then consider adding compost to enrich the soil.
• Pinch back the petunia plant to promote bushier growth and more flowers.

5. Trumpet Vine

The trumpet vine's showy flowers and attractive leaves make it an excellent option for attracting hummingbirds.

How to Care for Trumpet Vine

• Plant trumpet vine in well-drained, fertile soil.
• They should be watered regularly.
• When the plant matures, you can shear it back lightly to shape the plant and promote healthy growth.

6. Columbine

Hummingbirds are attracted to columbine's long-spurred flowers. This plant is easy to grow, and its delicate petals make it a patio favorite.

Growing and Caring for Columbine Plants

• Columbines grow best in partially shady spots with well-drained soil.
• To promote bushier growth and more flowers, pinch off dead blooms during the summer.
• Columbines are drought tolerant, but regular watering can promote better bloom.

7. Impatiens

Impatiens are shade-loving flowers that bloom vibrantly and attract hummingbirds with ease.

How to Plant and Care for Impatiens

• Plant impatiens in partial to full shade areas.
• Keep the soil moist, and avoid watering them from above, as they can develop diseases.
• Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers.

8. Cardinal Flower

The cardinal flower's brilliant red spiky blooms are just the right thing for attracting hummingbirds to your patio.

Tips for Growing Cardinal Flower in Your Garden

• Plant cardinal flowers in full sunlight to partial shade with well-draining soil.
• The plants require regular watering to stay healthy and thrive.
• If you don't deadhead the spent flowers, the plant will self-sow which can lead to aggressive growth.

9. Geraniums

Geraniums' bright blooms and fragrant foliage make them irresistible to hummingbirds. They're also easy to grow and maintain.

How to Care for Geraniums

• Keep geraniums in an area that receives five to six hours of direct sunlight every day.
• Well-draining soil is crucial as they dislike wet feet.
• Remove dead petals and leaves regularly to prevent any disease or pest infestation.

10. Zinnias

Zinnias' large blooms and vibrant colors make them perfect for attracting hummingbirds to your patio.

Tips for Growing Zinnias

• Plant zinnias in warm, fertile, and well-draining soil.
• Zinnias love sunlight and regular watering, so ensure they are well-maintained.
• You can pinch the tips of the stem or the first set of leaves when young to promote bushier growth.

With these ten patio flowers that attract hummingbirds, you're all set to create a beautiful and inviting space for these delightful creatures. Bright, colorful flowers not only enhance your patio's aesthetics but also help in maintaining ecological balance. Don't forget to provide fresh water and food to maintain the birds' presence.

FAQ

What are some other tips for attracting hummingbirds to my patio?

Hummingbirds go for brightly colored flowers like orange, red, or pink. Consider adding a bird feeder filled with sugar water to encourage birds to visit.

What types of feeders should I use for hummingbirds?

Hummingbirds prefer feeders with perches and bright-colored flowers that mimic the shape of the tube-shaped flower blooms commonly found in their natural habitat.

Is it necessary to use pesticides on my patio flowers?

It is best to avoid using pesticides as it could harm the hummingbirds' health. One of the better options is to companion plant to deter pests.

How can I prevent bees from dominating the hummingbird feeders on my patio?

One way is to add multiple feeders spaced out at different areas around the patio. This would reduce the competition between bees and hummingbirds, ensuring they each get their fair share.

Can I plant any kind of flowers, or are there certain ones that are harmful to hummingbirds?

Not all flowers are safe for hummingbirds. Some species have toxic nectar that could kill the bird. Research before planting to ensure that the flowers you choose are safe for hummingbirds.

What other birds might be attracted to my patio flowers?

Apart from hummingbirds, butterflies and other pollinators like bumblebees might be attracted to your patio flowers.

What soil conditions do these flowers need to thrive and grow vibrantly in pots?

Patio flowers require good drainage to avoid waterlogging. Ensure that the soil you use is mixed with organic matter like compost, as this would help retain moisture while still allowing excellent drainage.