As spring unfolds across the East Coast, a remarkable journey is underway. Tiny, vibrant hummingbirds are making their way north, following the warming temperatures and the blooming flowers that provide the nectar they need to fuel their travels. If you love watching these dazzling creatures dart and hover in your garden, now is the time to prepare for their arrival!
Why Hummingbirds Migrate
Each year, hummingbirds embark on an incredible migration, flying thousands of miles from their wintering grounds in Central America and the southern U.S. to their breeding territories in the northern states and Canada. Their journey is timed with the blooming of nectar-rich flowers, which provide the essential energy they need to survive.
By mid to late March, the first hummingbirds—typically ruby-throated hummingbirds along the East Coast—begin appearing in southern states like Florida and Georgia. As April and May progress, they continue their way north, arriving in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions.
How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden
One of the best ways to support migrating hummingbirds is by providing them with a reliable source of nectar. You can do this by planting native flowers rich in nectar and by setting up hummingbird feeders with a simple homemade sugar-water solution.
Best Flowers for Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are naturally drawn to brightly colored, tubular flowers that provide easy access to nectar. Some excellent choices for your garden include:
Bee balm (Monarda)
Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Trumpet vine (Campsis radicans)
Red buckeye (Aesculus pavia)
Planting a variety of these flowers ensures a continuous nectar supply throughout the hummingbird season.
The Proper Sugar-Water Ratio for Hummingbird Feeders
In addition to flowers, a well-maintained hummingbird feeder can provide a crucial energy boost for these tiny travelers. The best nectar recipe mimics the natural sugar content found in flowers:
Mix 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts water (e.g., 1 cup of sugar to 4 cups of water).
Stir until completely dissolved. Some people like to lightly heat the water on the stove , removing the water from heat source then pouring in the sugar to dissolve the in water- if you do this, please ensure its not boiling (just heated) and you serve it room temperature
Do not add red dye, honey, or artificial sweeteners, as they can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Hummingbird Feeder Maintenance
To keep your visiting hummingbirds safe, it's essential to clean feeders regularly. Sugary water can quickly ferment and grow mold, which is dangerous for birds. Follow these guidelines:
Change the nectar every other day in warm weather and every 3 days in cooler weather. When it really hot, change it daily!
Clean the feeder with hot water and a brush (avoid soap or bleach). Check for any mold and ensure your clean it good! Mold can kill these gems.
Place the feeder in a shaded spot to slow fermentation.
A Rewarding Sight in Your Garden
By planting nectar-rich flowers and maintaining feeders with fresh sugar water, you’ll not only help hummingbirds on their migration but also enjoy the beauty of these fascinating birds up close. Watching them hover and dart around your garden is a delightful reward for creating a welcoming environment. Feeding hummingbirds is a commitment and a responsibility to be taken seriously- these gems trust us to do right by them.
Are you ready for the return of the hummingbirds? Keep an eye out in the coming weeks, and be sure to have your garden prepared to greet these incredible travelers!
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