Hummingbirds are one of nature’s most sought-after pollinators, as they’re both beautiful to look at and have a positive effect on your garden. These tiny winged creatures have grooved tongues perfect for getting nectar out of flowers or feeders, and can provide backyard entertainment that benefits both you and the ecosystem. Offering nectar feeders in combination with nectar-producing plants will help you maximize the number of hummingbirds that visit your yard. Take a look at some of Whispering Springs Nursery‘s tips for attracting hummingbirds to your Canton backyard.
While it’s true that hummingbirds are naturally drawn to the color red, there are a variety of plants and shrubs in all colors that will help bring them to your yard, including: 
- Bee balm – Bee balm is a favorite among late-summer herb gardens and for flower borders. This perennial grows well in full sun and attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and bees, which are all important pollinators.
- Butterfly Bush – This beauty is easy to grow and produces flower spikes in a number of colors, including purple, pink, white and blue. This shrub is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for attracting both butterflies and hummingbirds. However, you should check local restrictions before planting Butterfly Bush, as it’s invasive.
- Delphinium – With dozens of blooms on each stem, Delphinium wows at the back of a mixed border, as a vertical accent or in a container. Delphiniums also make excellent cut flowers, so fill your garden with them and then bring a few stems inside to enjoy as well.
- Salvia – Listed as one of the top 18 best plants for attracting hummingbirds, salvias are another excellent drought-tolerant option for summer gardens.
- Phlox – Phlox features clusters of fragrant blooms that come in pink, red and lavender. Best grown in amply moist soil, pair it with dwarf varieties of butterfly bush for the ultimate backyard hummingbird destination.
These are just a handful of the variety of plants and shrubs that will attract hummingbirds and other pollinators to your yard. For more information about what varieties will work best, contact us or visit our nursery.
Photo courtesy of Flickr.
