Essential perennials for migrating hummingbirds during summer and fall should no longer be neglected from gardening practices.
Five Perennials to Leave Untouched During Hummingbird Migration
As the summer season reaches its peak and hummingbirds begin their southward migration, it's essential to consider the impact of our gardening practices on these tiny, vibrant creatures. Here are five perennials that you should not deadhead during this critical time, as their faded or spent flowers continue to provide essential nectar.
- Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
The cardinal flower, a North American native wildflower, is an annual hit with pollinators, particularly hummingbirds. From July through September, it throws up vivid scarlet flower spikes, and there is no need for any deadheading. The 'Sour Grapes' variety of penstemon, with tiny flowers in shades of mauve, is another favourite among hummingbirds.
- Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm, typically producing masses of red, pink, or purple flowers, is popular with hummingbirds for its high nectar content. The 'Leading Lady Plum' variety, hardy down to zone 4, is a good choice for those looking to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. Deadheading bee balm earlier in the growing season is a good idea, but by August, it's best to leave the flower stalks in situ.
- Penstemon
Penstemon is a perennial that is popular with pollinators, including hummingbirds, butterflies, and hummingbird hawk-moths. Learning how to deadhead penstemon is simple, and cutting the stalks down to the base in early summer can help to encourage a second flush. However, during hummingbird migration, it's crucial to leave the old flowers intact to provide a steady nectar source.
- Salvia
Salvia is a stalwart of any wildlife garden and is a member of the mint family, producing tubular, nectar-rich flowers. Salvia is a long-lasting perennial that is hard to beat in a wildlife garden, especially in late summer. Deadheading salvias from August onwards might give you a sprig or two of new growth, but it'll come at the cost of what's already there. From August, it is recommended to put the pruners down and leave salvia plants alone. If you want to add another salvia to your collection, try Salvia nemorosa 'May Night'.
- Hummingbird Mint (Agastache)
Hummingbird mint, or Agastache, should not be deadheaded in late summer as it can produce lilac spires that are irresistible to hummingbirds. Agastache 'Royal Raspberry' is a variety that should last until October.
Remember, even faded blooms of these perennials are still full of nectar and are beneficial for hummingbirds and other pollinators. By leaving these plants untouched, you can help ensure a successful journey for the migrating hummingbirds.
Lastly, it's important to regularly clean, disinfect, and top up hummingbird feeders during the growing season to provide an additional food source for these fascinating creatures.
[1] Source: Hummingbird Migration: Gardening Tips to Help Them on Their Journey
While preparing for hummingbird migration, it's advisable to avoid deadheading certain perennials, such as the Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Bee Balm (Monarda), Penstemon, Salvia, and Hummingbird Mint (Agastache). These plants offer essential nectar to hummingbirds, and letting the old flowers remain on the plants can help provide a steady nectar source during their journey. For instance, the 'Leading Lady Plum' variety of bee balm, hardy down to zone 4, is a good choice for those seeking to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators.
