There are a few things that help bring birds into your garden, food, water, and shelter. If you are looking to bring hummingbirds into your garden, the three components are the same but the plants (food source) that you use will be a little bit different.
Yes, you can put out hummingbird feeders but that just brings them in for a little snack. If you create an environment that the hummingbirds love, you will bring them into your garden for a long long time. In California there are a few varieties that never migrate, and the ones that do migrate will come back to nest year after year (and their babies will too) if you provide them with what you need.
We currently have NO hummingbird feeders in our garden, but we have two active nests and one of them is on her second set of eggs! We provide water, shelter, and plants that they can get nectar from and which provide them with the insects that they feed the babies.
Here is an article that I wrote about plants that bring Hummingbirds into your garden, I hope that you will enjoy it. A couple of months ago, I decided that I wanted more birds, so I have started feeding finches! I have a nyger feeder in my backyard (nyger is the seed name) and those finches are happy little visitors. Starting with small birds, is a great way to build a nature sanctuary.
Next weekend on Saturday 3/28/15 I will be speaking about How to Bring Birds and Butterflies into your Garden at 9 am at Green Thumb in Newhall. I’d love if you would join me, we’re going to have a great time! This is their Spring Opening, so there will be lots of raffles, giveaways, and discounts. Plus – they have some really great new items for your garden.
If you would like some help designing your garden, give me a call at 661-917-3521 or visit my website and contact me there.
