Growing Flowers in Containers and Baskets to Attract Hummingbirds
Why Container Gardens Attract Hummingbirds
Container gardens are perfect when you do not have much yard space. They let you bring hummingbirds right up to your windows, patio, or balcony.
Also, containers and baskets put flowers at eye level. This makes it easier for you to watch hummingbirds as they feed and hover.
Because you control the soil, water, and light, containers can be very healthy for nectar plants. As a result, they can bloom longer and support more hummingbirds.
Benefits of Containers and Hanging Baskets
First, containers are flexible. You can move them to follow the sun or to protect plants from wind and storms.
Next, hanging baskets create a floating buffet of blooms. Hummingbirds notice these bright flowers fast, even from a distance.
In addition, pots and baskets are great for renters or people with small decks. You can grow a mini hummingbird garden almost anywhere.
Best Locations for Hummingbird Containers
Most hummingbird flowers need at least six hours of sun each day. So, place containers where they get full sun or morning sun with light afternoon shade.
Set pots near places where you sit, such as a patio chair or kitchen window. This way, you can enjoy the birds without scaring them.
Finally, spread several containers around your yard. This helps more hummingbirds feed peacefully and reduces chasing and fighting.
Choosing the Right Containers
Pick containers with drainage holes in the bottom. Good drainage keeps roots from rotting and keeps plants healthier.
Use medium to large pots, about 12 to 16 inches across, for most flower mixes. Larger pots hold more soil, which helps keep moisture and nutrients stable.
Hanging baskets should be strong, with sturdy hooks or brackets. Make sure they are safely attached, especially in windy areas.
Soil and Potting Mix
Always use high quality potting mix, not garden soil. Potting mix drains faster and gives roots the air they need.
Look for a mix with peat or coco coir, perlite, and compost. These ingredients hold moisture but still drain well.
You can also add a small amount of slow-release fertilizer to the mix. This gives your flowers a steady, gentle food supply over time.
Watering and Fertilizing Basics
Container plants dry out faster than plants in the ground. So, check the soil every day in warm weather.
Water deeply until it runs out of the drainage holes. Then let the top inch of soil dry slightly before watering again.
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season. However, do not over-fertilize, because too much nitrogen can mean more leaves and fewer flowers.
Flower Traits Hummingbirds Love
Hummingbirds prefer nectar-rich flowers. They also like blooms that stay open for a long time.
They are especially drawn to red, orange, and bright pink flowers. Still, they will also visit purple, blue, and white blooms if they have good nectar.
Most of all, hummingbirds love tube-shaped and trumpet-shaped flowers. These shapes match their long beaks and tongues, so they can reach the nectar easily.
Best Flowers for Pots and Baskets
Here are some great flowers for hummingbird containers and hanging baskets. Try to mix several types so something is always blooming.
- Salvia (sage): Tubular flowers in red, purple, or blue that bloom for a long time.
- Fuchsias: Excellent for shady baskets with dangling, tube-shaped flowers.
- Petunias: Bright, trumpet-shaped flowers that spill over the edges of pots.
- Lantana: Colorful clusters that love sun and heat.
- Bee balm (Monarda): Spiky, nectar-rich flowers that hummingbirds adore.
- Trumpet vine or cuphea: Great tubular flowers for strong hummingbird interest.
- Calibrachoa (million bells): Mini petunia-like flowers that trail nicely from baskets.
- Columbine and lobelia: Pretty options that add texture and extra nectar.
Designing a Hummingbird Container
When you design a pot, think “thriller, filler, and spiller.” This simple idea helps you build a full and balanced container.
First, choose a tall “thriller” plant for the center or back. Next, add rounded “filler” plants around it. Finally, add trailing “spiller” plants to soften the edges.
Use three to five plants per medium pot and more for very large containers. Space them closer than you would in the ground so the pot looks full and lush.
Sample Sun Container Recipe
Here is an example of a sun-loving hummingbird container you can copy or adapt.
- One tall red salvia in the center as the thriller.
- Two lantanas with orange and yellow blooms as fillers.
- Two trailing petunias or calibrachoas along the edges as spillers.
Place this container in a sunny spot and water regularly. You should see hummingbirds visit often once the flowers are in full bloom.
Sample Shade or Part Shade Basket
If your space is shadier, you can still attract hummingbirds with the right plants.
- One upright fuchsia as the main thriller.
- Two impatiens or begonias as colorful fillers.
- Two trailing fuchsias or lobelias to spill over the sides.
Hang this basket where it gets bright shade or morning sun. Keep the soil slightly moist, and avoid letting it dry out completely.
Seasonal Care and Deadheading
As flowers fade, pinch or cut them off. This is called deadheading, and it encourages new blooms.
Continue deadheading all season, especially on petunias, salvias, and lantanas. With regular care, your containers can bloom from late spring through fall.
Before the first frost, decide which plants you want to overwinter indoors. Bring them inside to a bright window, and reduce watering so they can rest.
Keeping Hummingbirds Safe
Even in containers, safety matters. Avoid using pesticides or systemic insecticides on or near hummingbird plants.
Instead, remove pests by hand, use a strong spray of water, or try gentle organic methods. Healthy plants, good air flow, and proper watering help prevent many problems.
Also, place baskets and pots where cats and other predators cannot easily reach hovering birds.
Combining Containers with Feeders
You can use feeders along with your flower containers. Together, they give hummingbirds both natural nectar and a backup food source.
Hang feeders at least a few feet away from your busiest seating areas. Clean them often and change the nectar every few days in warm weather.
Because some hummingbirds are territorial, place a few feeders and containers in different spots. This helps more birds feel welcome.
Helpful Resources and Further Reading
Use these trusted resources to learn more about hummingbird gardening and container care.
- Garden Design: Hummingbird Container Ideas
- National Wildlife Federation: Hummingbird-Friendly Gardening
- Small-Space Hummingbird Garden Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
How many flowers do I need to attract hummingbirds?
You do not need a huge number of flowers. However, several containers with many blooms give hummingbirds more reasons to visit often.
Can I grow hummingbird flowers on a balcony?
Yes, you can. As long as your balcony gets enough sun and you water regularly, pots and hanging baskets can thrive there.
Do hummingbirds only like red flowers?
No, they enjoy many colors. Still, red, orange, and hot pink seem to catch their attention faster.
How often should I water hummingbird container plants?
Check them daily in warm weather. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and be sure to soak the root zone well.
Can I overwinter my hummingbird plants indoors?
Some plants can come inside before frost. Place them in bright light, trim lightly, and water less so they can rest until spring.
