Native Plants and Smart Gardening: ways to Support Hummingbirds

Though not native to the Pacific Northwest, the brilliant red flowers of Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ attracts hummingbirds throughout the summer.

Whether you’re hosting resident Anna’s hummingbirds or welcoming migrating Rufous hummingbirds, providing the right food sources can transform your garden into a haven for these tiny wonders.

3–5 minutes

Did you know that hummingbirds are more than just a delightful sight in your garden? These energetic pollinators are crucial to our ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and spreading pollen as they zip from flower to flower. Whether you’re hosting resident Anna’s hummingbirds or welcoming migrating Rufous hummingbirds, providing the right food sources can transform your garden into a haven for these tiny wonders.

Insects: An Overlooked Staple
While we tend to associate hummingbirds with nectar, insects and spiders make up 80% of their diet, especially during nesting season. Female Anna’s can consume up to 2,000 bugs a day to fuel themselves and feed their young. To encourage native insects, plant native shrubs and trees, and leave leaf litter in your garden during fall and winter. These small adjustments create a year-round food supply for hummingbirds and other birds while reducing your need for pesticides.

Pesticides containing neonicotinoid insecticide are widely used by farmers and homeowners, and its use is supported by WSU and WSDA. Though neonicotinoids are relatively less toxic to beneficial insects and pollinators, some research institutions have found that hummingbirds exposed to systemic neonicotinoid insecticides for even a short time can disrupt their high-powered metabolism. Hummingbirds are pollinators. They can visit hundreds of flowers in a day Many gardeners opt for for natural pest control methods instead.

Many enjoy feeding hummingbirds, but doing so comes with the responsibility of keeping the feeders clean and free of bacteria to avoid harming the birds. It may be easier to grow native plants such as snowberry and red currant to help the hummers through late winter. Photo by Nancy Crowell

Tree Sap: A Backup Feast
When flower nectar is scarce, Rufous hummingbirds rely on tree sap as a food source, especially from wells created by sapsuckers and woodpeckers. Adding trees like birch, pine, or aspen to your garden provides not only sap but also nesting and perching spots.

Nectar-Rich Flowers: Native and Non-Native
Nectar is a key part of a hummingbird’s diet, but not all flowers are created equal. Native plants like red-flowering currant, nodding onion, and Cascade penstemon provide the high-quality nectar hummingbirds need. While vibrant red and orange flowers attract their attention, nectar richness is ultimately what keeps them coming back.

For year-round blooms, consider a mix of natives and non-natives. Hummingbird favorites include salvias like ‘Hot Lips’ and ‘Black and Blue,’ bee balm, and crocosmia. For winter interest, gardening expert Ciscoe Morris recommends plants like camellias, witch hazel, and Daphne odora.

The coastal hedgenettle (Stachys chamissonis) is a native plant in the Pacific Northwest that thrives in moist soil near forests and provides support to birds, bees and butterflies. Photo by Nancy Crowell

Hummingbird Feeders: Handle with Care
Overwintering Anna’s hummingbirds often benefit from feeders, but maintaining them requires diligence. Experts recommend cleaning feeders every 3 to 5 days—or daily in warm weather—to prevent harmful bacteria and mold. Fermented sugar water can cause liver damage, while dirty feeders are linked to yeast infections in hummingbirds.

To make your sugar solution, mix one part plain white sugar with four parts water, boil it, and allow it to cool. Never use red dye or commercial mixes, as they can harm birds. Place feeders strategically: in the shade during summer and in the sun during winter. If temperatures drop, use a heating element to keep the solution from freezing.

Want to learn more about attracting and supporting hummingbirds in your garden? Check out the full article at https://www.skagitmg.org/hummingbirds for detailed tips, flower recommendations, and feeder care guidelines. Your feathered friends will thank you!

About the Author: Joan Stamm, is a certified Skagit County WSU Extension Master Gardener and the author of several books, including The Language of Flowers in the Time of COVID:  Finding Solace in Zen, Nature and Ikebana.

Questions about home gardening or becoming a master gardener may be directed to: Skagit County WSU Extension Office, 11768 Westar Lane, Suite A, Burlington, WA 98233; by phone: 360-428-4270; or via the website: www.skagit.wsu.edu/mg 

Washington State University Extension helps people develop leadership skills and use research-based knowledge to improve economic status and quality of life. Cooperating agencies: Washington State University, US Department of Agriculture, and Skagit County. Extension programs and policies are available to all without discrimination. To request disability accommodations contact us at least ten days in advance.

Subscribe
Donate 🤍