There is a reason why petunias are one of the most popular annual floral plants. Hundreds of varieties of petunias are available, and they bloom throughout the spring and summer. They are simple to cultivate and are bright, fragrant, and beautiful.
However, if you are interested in selecting plants to attract beneficial pollinators to your yard, you may be pondering whether hummingbirds enjoy petunias. Continue reading to determine whether petunias should be included in your pollinator garden.
What is the definition of a pollinator?
A pollinator is an insect, avian, or animal that transfers pollen from plant to plant in order to fertilize and produce fruits and seeds. Hummingbirds are regarded as significant pollinators.One
Do Hummingbirds Like Petunias?
Yes, hummingbirds do enjoy petunias. Petunias are a suitable choice for these birds, as they prefer tubular-shaped, brightly colored flowers that are full with nectar. Nevertheless, cultivated petunias are not as nectar-rich as certain native plants. Consequently, it is advisable to refrain from establishing a hummingbird garden that is exclusively composed of petunias, as the birds will likely migrate to adjacent gardens that offer a more diverse selection of blooms.
Select petunias that possess characteristics that are most likely to attract hummingbirds. Red, pink, and orange blossoms are the most appealing to these active birds, although they are also known to appreciate blue and purple flowers. For the hummingbird’s long, slender bill and tongue, choose petunias with more impressive and elongated trumpet-shaped flowers. Additionally, the presence of an abundance of petunias with extended bloom periods is likely to sustain the hummingbirds’ return to your yard.
Do not be concerned with selecting the most fragrant petunias, as hummingbirds are not as attracted to fragrance as some other pollinators.
Types of Petunias To Grow in Your Garden to Attract Hummingbirds
Some of the most popular petunia varieties that are considered champions by hummingbirds are:
- Petunia ‘African Sunset’: A variety that has been recognized with numerous awards, this plant can rapidly grow to a height of up to one foot and produces an abundance of vibrant orange blooms from spring to early autumn.
- Petunia ‘Bingo Red’: Developed to bloom earlier in the season than many other petunias, ‘Bingo Red’ offers an early source of nectar for hummingbirds on their way, and the bright red blossoms are sure to attract them. The compact, erect plants are also well-suited for container gardens.
- Petunia ‘Easy Wave Pink Passion’: This low-maintenance plant, which grows to a height of 12 inches, features enticing pink blossoms that will be a focal point in your yard.
- Petunia ‘Littletunia Red Fire’: This charming compact variety, which grows to approximately 14 inches tall, produces an abundance of vibrant red flowers.
- Petunia ‘Success Pink Vein’: This variety is renowned for its striking pink blooms and is one of the lowest-maintenance petunias, reaching a height of approximately 12 inches.
Growing Instructions for Petunias
It is effortless to incorporate petunias into your hummingbird habitat. Blooms are produced by these prolific plants with minimal effort on your part. To ensure that your petunias remain in bloom, it is important to follow these best tips:
- Select a location that receives complete sunlight in order to maximize the quantity of blooms.
- Avoid sowing petunias in soils that are heavy and poorly drained.
- Water petunias sparingly to prevent them from remaining in dry soil or residual water for an extended period. (It is important to remember that petunias in window boxes and containers require more frequent irrigation.)
- To encourage hummingbirds to visit, deadhead spent flowers to promote the growth of new blossoms.
- Avoid the use of pesticides on your petunias, as they can be detrimental to hummingbirds and other pollinators.
- Trim back leggy petunias during the summer to promote healthy new growth and an increase in the number of blossoms.
FAQ’s
What is the preferred color of petunia for hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are known to visit blue and purple petunias, but they prefer red, pink, and orange petunias.
Is there a particular flower that hummingbirds prefer?
Many tubular flowers are preferred by hummingbirds, including salvia, bleeding heart, foxglove, and hosta blossoms.
What types of blossoms are averse to hummingbirds?
Lilacs, sunflowers, roses, tulips, and other flowers with minimal nectar content are not preferred by hummingbirds.