Morning Glory for Hummingbirds, also known as Ipomoea, is a delightful flower that hummingbirds simply adore. Its tubular shape is perfect for these tiny birds to access the nectar, and its vibrant colors are a sight to behold. Growing Morning Glory is a breeze, as they are fast-growing and can cover arbors and trellises with ease. The author fondly recalls being woken up by their mother’s gentle voice using the phrase “Good morning glory,” inspired by the flower’s unique behavior of curling up in the heat of the day and blooming again in the morning. These nostalgic flowers may be considered old-fashioned, but both humans and hummingbirds can’t resist their charm. With a few simple steps, you too can enjoy the beauty of Morning Glory and attract hummingbirds to your garden.
Morning Glory for Hummingbirds
The Ipomoea Morning Glory is one of the best flowers for attracting hummingbirds. These flowers have a unique tendency to curl up in the heat of the day and open up again in the early morning, hence their name. Growing these flowers is not only a delight for gardeners, but also provides a wonderful food source for hummingbirds. The tubular shape of the flowers makes it easy for hummingbirds to access the nectar.
Purchasing the Seeds
To start growing Morning Glory for hummingbirds, you will need to purchase the seeds. They come in a variety of colors, but keep in mind that hummingbirds are particularly attracted to the color red, so consider purchasing red-seeded varieties. Another option is to save the seed pods from the previous year’s plants and use them for planting in the spring.
Soaking the Seeds
Before planting, it is recommended to soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours. This helps to speed up the germination process and ensure better success in growing the flowers.
Preparing the Soil
Morning Glories thrive in well-drained soil, so it’s important to prepare the soil before planting. Loosen the soil to ensure good air circulation and drainage.
Planting after the Last Frost
Morning Glories are annuals and can be planted after the last frost in your area. They prefer full sun, so choose a location in your garden that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day.
Locating in Full Sun
Despite their tendency to curl up in hot sun, Morning Glories actually thrive in full sun. Find a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sunlight and ensure the plants have enough exposure to maintain their vibrant blooms.
Providing Support for the Flowers
Morning Glories are vines that can grow up to 20 feet, so it’s important to provide support for them. You can use a trellis, wall, or other structure to help the vines climb and display their beautiful flowers. There are many lovely trellis options available that can add beauty to your garden while providing support for the Morning Glory vines.
Heavenly Blue Morning Glory
The Heavenly Blue Morning Glory is a popular variety known for its glorious sky-blue flowers. These flowers have a white throat and typically bloom from summer until the first frost of fall. Unlike other Morning Glory varieties, the Heavenly Blue Morning Glory blooms all day during the fall season.
Description of the Flowers
The Heavenly Blue Morning Glory produces 4 to 5 inch sky-blue flowers with a distinctive white throat. The vibrant blue color is a favorite among gardeners and is sure to attract the attention of hummingbirds.
Preferred Growing Conditions
To grow the Heavenly Blue Morning Glory, it’s important to provide the right growing conditions. These flowers prefer well-drained soil and should be watered frequently to prevent drying out. It’s best to plant them in the spring after the last average frost date, as starting them too early can result in less vigorous growth.
Planting Guidelines
When planting the Heavenly Blue Morning Glory, consider using pots or containers to allow for better control of soil moisture. This variety can be grown as groundcover or in hanging baskets and pots. It also looks stunning when trained to cover fences and trellises.
Attracting Hummingbirds with Morning Glory
Planting Morning Glories in your garden not only adds beauty, but also attracts hummingbirds. These birds are attracted to the nectar produced by the flowers and rely on them as a food source.
Benefits of Planting Morning Glory
There are several benefits to planting Morning Glory for attracting hummingbirds. The vibrant colors of the flowers attract the attention of hummingbirds, making your garden a preferred feeding spot for them. Additionally, the tubular shape of the flowers makes it easy for hummingbirds to access the nectar. By planting Morning Glory, you are providing a reliable food source for these beautiful birds.
Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds
To enhance the attractiveness of your garden to hummingbirds, consider the following tips:
- Plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times of the year to provide a continuous food source.
- Choose flowers in shades of red, orange, and purple, as hummingbirds are particularly attracted to these colors.
- Provide a water source, such as a birdbath or fountain, for hummingbirds to drink and bathe.
- Avoid using pesticides and other harmful chemicals in your garden, as they can be toxic to hummingbirds.
By following these tips, you can create an inviting environment for hummingbirds and enjoy their presence in your garden.
Other Hummingbird-Attracting Flowers
In addition to Morning Glories, there are many other flowers that attract hummingbirds. By incorporating a variety of these flowers in your garden, you can create an oasis for hummingbirds and enjoy their presence throughout the year.
Shrubs
Shrubs that attract hummingbirds include:
- Bee balm
- Weigela
- Butterfly bush
- Trumpet vine
These shrubs provide ample nectar for hummingbirds and also add beauty to your landscape.
Perennials
Perennials that attract hummingbirds include:
- Lupine
- Salvia
- Penstemon
- Columbine
These perennials come in a variety of colors and bloom at different times of the year, providing a continuous food source for hummingbirds.
Trees
Trees that attract hummingbirds include:
- Redbud
- Magnolia
- Dogwood
- Flowering crabapple
These trees not only provide nectar for hummingbirds, but also offer shelter and nesting spots for them.
Annuals
Annuals that attract hummingbirds include:
- Fuchsia
- Petunia
- Lantana
- Zinnia
These annual flowers are easy to grow and provide a burst of color in your garden.
By incorporating a variety of these flowers in your garden, you can create a diverse and attractive habitat for hummingbirds.
Senior Travel Resources
While this article focuses on Morning Glory for hummingbirds, it’s worth mentioning our other site, Senior Travel Central, which offers resources and information for senior travelers. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a group tour, Senior Travel Central provides tips, destination guides, and recommendations to make your travel experience enjoyable and stress-free. We understand that senior travel may have unique considerations, and our goal is to provide the resources you need to make informed travel decisions. Visit Senior Travel Central for inspiration and practical advice for your next adventure.
