Hummingbirds are attracted to a wide variety of flowers, but there are certain plants that they tend to avoid. Knowing which plants hummingbirds do not like can be helpful in creating a garden that is not only beautiful but also attractive to these delightful creatures.
1. Petunias: While petunias come in a variety of vibrant colors and are popular in many gardens, they are not a favorite of hummingbirds. Petunias have tubular flowers, which are typically attractive to hummingbirds, but their nectar is not as rich as that of other flowers, making them less appealing to these birds.
2. Marigolds: Although marigolds are known for their bright blooms and ability to repel pests, they are not a top choice for hummingbirds. Marigolds produce a strong scent that can overpower the delicate sense of smell of hummingbirds.
3. Impatiens: Impatiens are popular annual flowers that come in a range of colors and are known for their ability to thrive in shade. However, they are not a preferred choice for hummingbirds. The nectar of impatiens is not as rich as that of other flowers, which may be why hummingbirds are less attracted to them.
4. Geraniums: Geraniums are a common sight in many gardens, but they are not typically a favorite of hummingbirds. While geraniums produce beautiful blooms, their nectar does not have a high sugar content, making them less appealing to these birds.
5. Begonias: Begonias are beloved for their colorful foliage and ability to thrive in shade. However, they are not a top choice for hummingbirds. Begonias produce a minimal amount of nectar, which may explain why hummingbirds are not as attracted to them.
6. Sunflowers: Surprisingly, sunflowers are not a favorite of hummingbirds. While sunflowers are loved by many other pollinators, their large size and structure make it difficult for hummingbirds to access the nectar.
7. Daffodils: Daffodils are known for their cheerful blooms in early spring, but they are not typically visited by hummingbirds. Daffodils produce toxic alkaloids in their nectar, which can be harmful to hummingbirds if ingested.
8. Pansies: Pansies are popular cool-season flowers that come in a wide range of colors. However, they are not a preferred choice for hummingbirds. Pansies produce limited amounts of nectar, making them less attractive to these birds.
It is important to note that while these plants may be less preferred by hummingbirds, they still have value in the garden for other pollinators and their aesthetic appeal. Additionally, hummingbird preferences can vary regionally, so it is always a good idea to research native plants that are attractive to hummingbirds in your specific area.
In my personal experience, I have found that incorporating a variety of hummingbird-friendly plants in my garden has led to increased visits from these charming birds. Plants such as salvia, bee balm, trumpet vine, and fuchsia have been particularly popular among hummingbirds in my garden. By creating a diverse and nectar-rich habitat, I have been able to enjoy the presence of hummingbirds throughout the seasons.
