September-blooming flowers to forgo deadheading: Prolong Bloom for Late-Summer Migrating Hummingbirds, Offering Essential Nourishment on their Southern Voyage

As the leaves begin to change and autumn approaches, the hummingbird migration is still ongoing. Here are some tips to help you attract these vibrant birds to your garden.

Attracting Hummingbirds

Cardinal flowers (Lobelia cardinalis) and the cigar flower (Cuphea ignea) are ideal for attracting hummingbirds. Their tiny, vibrant flowers are a magnet for these feathered visitors. If you have a garden, consider adding the 'Salvia nemorosa 'May Night'" or the 'Balmy Rose' bee balm plant, both available on Amazon. The hummingbird mint (Agastache spp.) and the cardinal creeper (Ipomoea quamoclit) are also great choices.

Caring for Your Garden

In September, it's best to leave bee balm (Monarda spp.) undisturbed, as hummingbirds still find value in the faded blooms. Similarly, leave any remaining flower stems in place for cardinal flowers and the cardinal creeper. Avoid deadheading tubular flowers like salvias, agastaches, penstemons, and hummingbird mint during this period.

It's crucial to keep hummingbird feeders clean in September to prevent the spread of diseases or infections. Occer wildlife binoculars can help you watch hummingbirds up close in your yard. For a closer look, consider a decorative red-glass hummingbird feeder, which includes 6 feeding ports. If you're interested in capturing these moments, a DOCOON hummingbird feeder camera allows for close-up photographs of migrating hummingbirds.

Feeding Hummingbirds

A hummingbird concentrated mix from Perky Pet can help keep native migrants happy as they travel. Remember to top up hummingbird feeders with nectar solution to fuel any passing hummingbirds.

Planting for the Future

The Rocky Mountain Penstemon is a blue-flowering variety that can be grown from seeds. If you're looking for a new variety of hummingbird mint, consider Agastache 'Royal Raspberry', which can be planted in the fall. Live cardinal flower plants and the 'Balmy Rose' bee balm plant are also available on Amazon for planting in September.

For more information, see the guide on how to remove black mold on hummingbird feeders. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips will help you create a hummingbird-friendly garden this September.

September-blooming flowers to forgo deadheading: Prolong Bloom for Late-Summer Migrating Hummingbirds, Offering Essential Nourishment on their Southern Voyage