Hummingbird Feeders

Spotting a tiny hummingbird in your garden can be such a delight. Hummingbird feeders are a simple way to ensure a constant supply of nectar is available to any feathered guest stopping by without having to plant a thing.

Food Sources

Nectar is a sugary fluid secreted by plants. It’s also a hummingbird’s primary food source. After nectarivores deplete nectar within a flower, more will be created… but it takes time. Refilling a hummingbird feeder scarcely takes a moment.

Nectar Solutions

Hanging a hummingbird feeder is one way to attract hummingbirds without planting anything. You can purchase nectar mixes or make your own by mixing 4 parts water to 1 part white sugar. This solution will keep for up to two weeks in your refrigerator.  (Never use honey, brown sugar, or sugar substitutes) Red dye is unnecessary, so if you’re making your own, don’t add any.

Hummingbirds won’t drink spoiled nectar so it’s important to refresh the nectar solution frequently. Just how frequently will depend on the weather. Warmer temperatures will cause the nectar solution to begin to ferment more quickly.

Upkeep

Thoroughly sanitize the feeder at least once per week during the cool spring days. As the weather gets warmer, clean the feeder more frequently; at least twice a week. During the peak summer heat, it wouldn’t hurt to to every other day..When you clean the feeder, sanitize with hot water and a weak vinegar or bleach solution—NOT dish soap— then rinse well.  (Soaps, can leave a residue and taint the nectar mixture. If you don’t have consistent hummingbird visitors or weather is very hot, avoid wasting nectar by only partially filling feeders.