How to Attract Hummingbirds with Phlox Flowers

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How to Attract Hummingbirds with Phlox Flowers

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures, and there's something magical about seeing them feed on nectar. If you want to attract these amazing birds to your garden, one way is by planting flowers that they love. One of the most popular flowers that hummingbirds are drawn to is phlox. In this article, we'll discuss how using phlox can help you create a hummingbird-friendly garden.

Hummingbirds and Flowers

Why do hummingbirds love flowers?

Hummingbirds love nectar, which is a sweet liquid found in many types of flowers. They have a long beak that allows them to reach deep into flowers to extract the nectar. The flowers also provide a place for hummingbirds to rest while they feed and protect them from predators.

What kind of flowers do hummingbirds like?

Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colored flowers, especially those that are red, orange, or pink. They're also drawn to tubular-shaped flowers since their beak fits perfectly inside. Examples of flowers that hummingbirds like include impatiens, petunias, and salvia.

Phlox Plants

What are phlox plants?

Phlox is a genus of flowering plants that are native to North America. They belong to the polemoniaceae family and typically bloom in the summer months. There are many different varieties of phlox, ranging in color from white to pink and purple.

Types of phlox

There are several different types of phlox, including tall phlox, creeping phlox, and woodland phlox. Tall phlox is the most commonly grown variety and can reach heights of up to 4 feet. Creeping phlox is a ground cover that grows low to the ground and spreads quickly. Woodland phlox prefers shady areas and has delicate, fragrant flowers.

How to grow phlox

Phlox prefers moist, well-drained soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade. They can be grown from seeds or purchased as seedlings from a garden center. Once planted, phlox typically requires moderate watering and fertilizer every few months.

Attracting Hummingbirds

Planting phlox for hummingbirds

Phlox is an excellent choice if you want to create a hummingbird-friendly garden. Planting phlox near other nectar-producing flowers like salvia and petunias can help attract more hummingbirds to your garden. Be sure to plant the flowers in an area where they'll receive plenty of sunlight.

Other ways to attract hummingbirds

In addition to planting hummingbird-friendly flowers, you can also hang feeders filled with sugar water to attract them to your garden. These feeders should be cleaned regularly to prevent the spread of disease.

Tips for creating a hummingbird-friendly garden

Here are some tips to create a hummingbird-friendly garden:

• Plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the year.
• Provide shelter like trees and shrubs where hummingbirds can rest and hide from predators.
• Avoid using pesticides or chemicals in your garden that could harm the birds.

Benefits of Phlox for Hummingbirds

What makes phlox so attractive to hummingbirds?

Phlox is attractive to hummingbirds because it produces large amounts of nectar, which they love. The vibrant colors of the flowers, especially pink and red varieties, also draw the birds in.

The role of color and scent

Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors like red, orange, and pink because they can see those colors better than others. They're also drawn to sweet scents like those produced by phlox flowers.

Phlox as a source of nectar

Phlox produces a lot of nectar, making it an ideal plant for hummingbirds to feed on. It's also easy for them to access the nectar since the flowers are tubular-shaped and provide a landing spot for the birds.

Overall, planting phlox in your garden is a great way to encourage hummingbirds to visit. By providing these tiny birds with the nectar and shelter they need, you can help support their populations while also enjoying the beauty and wonder of nature!

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about phlox and hummingbirds:

What other plants besides phlox can I use to attract hummingbirds?

Other flowers that attract hummingbirds include impatiens, petunias, and salvia.

When is the best time to plant phlox?

The best time to plant phlox is in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.

How do I care for my phlox plants once they are established?

Phlox requires moderate watering and fertilizer every few months. Deadheading spent blooms can also encourage new growth.

How can I tell if a flower is attractive to hummingbirds?

Hummingbirds are attracted to tubular-shaped flowers that are brightly colored, especially those in shades of red, orange, or pink. Flowers with a sweet scent may also be attractive to hummingbirds.

Can I grow phlox in containers?

Yes, phlox can be grown in containers as long as they receive enough sunlight and water.

How long does it take for phlox to bloom?

Phlox typically blooms in the summer months and continues to bloom for several weeks.

Do phlox plants require a lot of maintenance?

Phlox plants require moderate maintenance, including regular watering and fertilizing. Deadheading spent blooms can also encourage new growth.

Can I use pesticides on my phlox plants?

It's best to avoid using pesticides or chemicals in your garden. These can harm not only hummingbirds but other birds and pollinators as well.

Are there any harmful effects of fertilizing phlox plants?

Over-fertilization can lead to excessive leaf growth and less blooming. Always follow the directions on the fertilizer package carefully.

What types of hummingbirds are most commonly found in North America?

There are over a dozen species of hummingbirds found in North America, including the ruby-throated hummingbird, broad-tailed hummingbird, and rufous hummingbird.