Hummingbird with flower. Rufous-gaped Hillstar

9 Proven Ways to Keep Hummingbirds in Your Yard All Season

Would you like to transform your backyard into a little slice of heaven for hummingbirds? The birds will show up every day once you follow these tips that will help you create a hummingbird sanctuary and the birds will stay with you to visit during the warm summer months.

1. Native Nectar-Rich Plant Flowers

Hummingbird feeding nectar
Image Credit: Depositphotos.

There are many flowers that attract hummingbirds, but not all do as successfully as others. Because humidity's are nectar lovers, they will be drawn to your garden if you include tubular bloom plants like native columbine, and bee balm. When planting these flowers do not forget to plant them in clusters and groups to create feeding stations to attract all the hummingbirds to your garden. These flowers will serve as natural nectar sources acting like a buffet and bringing hummingbirds to your garden for the entire growing season.

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2. Maintain Multiple Feeders

Hummingbird drinks from a glass feeder in a backyard garden
Image Credit: Depositphotos.

To reduce the chance of territorial aggression in your yard, position feeders in several locations. Hummingbirds can be aggressive, but having multiple feeding stations can allow them to get their fill. Ideally, feeders should be spaced 10-15 feet apart and visible from one another to reduce competition.

3. Perfect Your Nectar Recipe

Hummingbird flying to the feeder
Image Credit: Depositphotos

Making nectar is simple! All you have to do is combine one part white sugar to four parts water. (Do not use red dye, honey, or artificial sweeteners as they are harmful to hummingbirds). To avoid dangerous mold, remember to change out the nectar and clean your feeders every few days (even more often when it is hot out).

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4. Create a Water Feature

Two Anna's hummingbirds play in the birdbath
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Hummingbirds love to fly through fine mist like water sprays. You can provide them with a fountain with a misting device so they can enjoy the water. It helps them keep their feathers clean and stay cool in the summer.

5. Provide Perching Spots

Perched Broad Billed Hummingbird
Image Credit: Depositphotos

Based on common beliefs, hummingbirds are thought to act a certain way when in reality, they spend a great deal of time resting. One way to make a good perch opportunity is to install several thin and bare rods or unbranched shepherd's hooks, and place them near the feeding stations. These areas will also be used for preening and watching territories, which will make your location more attractive to migrating and possibly nesting.

6. Avoid Pesticides

Pesticide
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Using chemicals in the yard can kill tiny hummingbirds that eat small insects. Lots of the small insects they eat are the same ones killed by pesticides. Even worse, many pesticides kill the food sources that the hummingbirds rely on. You can make your yard strong and healthy ecosystem by using natural methods of pest control.

7. Create Shelter Zones

Annas Hummingbird Feeds Chicks
Image Credit: Depositphotos.

For sheltering purposes, use a mixture of trees and shrubs of differing heights. Hummingbirds need safe spaces to build their nests and escape predators. To create the optimal habitat for their daytime activities, plant tall trees, shrubs at mid-height, and lower flowering plants in a layered arrangement.

8. Maintain Year-Round Interest

desert plants that attract hummingbirds
Image Credit: Depositphotos.

Hummingbirds will have food great food sources for the whole spring to fall season. Pair native columbines with bee balm and cardinal flower with autumn sage. You'll have a blooming beautiful garden!

9. Keep Records

Hummingbird
Image Credit: Depositphotos

Every year, start a journal to record what day the hummingbirds come and what day they leave for the season. Also record what flowers they like the best, and where the best feeding spots are. This information will help with planning future gardens. Plus, you will have a great way to showcase your hummingbird sanctuary.