DIY Gardening Tips

submitted: Apr 5th 2008 | by: Admin | Total views: 163 | Word Count: 425 | |

When I was growing up, seeing a hummingbird was a momentous event. I thought hummingbirds were rare and attracting one seemed about as mysterious as attracting the mythical unicorn. Watching these tiny, extraordinary creatures hover among the buds and flowers in your garden provides a wonderful sense of accomplishment and gives you a high level of satisfaction with the work you've put in.

In reality, bringing hummingbirds to your garden spot can be relatively simple. Sometimes just placing a hummingbird feeder is attraction enough. But if that doesn't bring in these enchanting creatures, then you'll have to do a little more. Creating a hummingbird garden is your best course of action.

Size does not make a real difference when it comes to hummingbird gardens. They can range from large creations to tiny hanging containers. What really makes a hummingbird garden is the plants you choose. There are specific plants and flowers that prove simply irresistible to hummingbirds.

Color is very significant in the design of hummingbird gardens. These small birds adore bright color. One way to maximize the attraction of your garden is to plant so that the same color blooms cluster together. This will give you large splotches of color which could provide a stronger attraction.

The best flower shapes for attracting hummingbirds are trumpet or fluted shaped blooms. If this is your first attempt at a hummingbird garden, it's a good idea to stick to these basic, proven shapes. However, hummingbirds have been attracted to other shapes as well.

Do hummingbirds have any favorites? It seems like they prefer yellow to other colors. Scented flowers also seem to have a stronger attraction value. A good example that combines both of these features is the esperanza. Considering the alternate names for this plant include yellow bell and trumpet flower, you can begin to see why this is a hummingbird attraction champion.

Providing a water source will also increase your chances for successfully attracting hummingbirds. A bird bath or bubbling fountain are both good choices. When you place your water source, put it well into the open. Otherwise, if cats can find a place to hide around the watering hole, you may be luring your hummingbirds into an ambush.

By the way, make sure to go easy on chemicals and insecticides in your hummingbird gardens. These tiny birds with their fast metabolisms are especially sensitive to the effects of these chemicals. If possible, stay away from artificial additives completely, even in hummingbird feeders. Hummingbirds are looking for pure nectar. Providing pure nectar in fluted blooms of vivid colors should ensure your success.

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