Hummingbirds Are on Their Way: How to Welcome Early Arrivals to Your Virginia Garden

As winter loosens its grip and the first hints of spring emerge, one of Virginia’s most enchanting visitors—the hummingbird—begins its long journey back. 

In Richmond, these tiny, energetic birds will soon return, searching for food and shelter after their migration. By preparing your yard now, you can create a welcoming habitat that provides the nourishment and rest they need as they arrive.

Hummingbirds are among the first migratory birds to return in the spring, so it’s crucial to have your feeders ready before they arrive. Aim to hang them in early March to ensure these tiny travelers have a dependable food source upon arrival. Bright red feeders are especially effective in catching their attention from afar.

Consider the Perky-Pet Vintage Glass Hummingbird Feeder, which boasts four feeding ports and a 16 oz nectar capacity. Its vivid red color and flower-shaped ports make it an irresistible stop for passing hummers. Another excellent option is the Nature's Way Bird Products Hummingbird Feeder, featuring a beautifully hand-blown glass design with multiple flower feeding ports.

Serve Up Homemade Nectar

A steady nectar supply is key to attracting hummingbirds to your yard. You can either purchase ready-made options or mix up a homemade batch. For a quick and easy choice, Perky-Pet Clear Powder Concentrate Hummingbird Nectar lets you mix fresh nectar on demand, while More Birds Ready-to-Use Red Liquid Hummingbird Nectar offers instant feeding with no prep required.

If you'd rather make your own, simply dissolve one part white granulated sugar into four parts water—no need for brown sugar, honey, or artificial sweeteners, as these can be harmful to hummingbirds. No matter which option you choose, be sure to clean feeders often and refresh the nectar every few days to keep your humming visitors safe and well-fed.

Enhancing your yard with native, nectar-rich flowers is a great way to naturally attract hummingbirds. Choose plants with tubular, brightly colored blooms—especially in shades of red, orange, and pink—as these are known to catch their attention.

Consider planting Trumpet Honeysuckle, Bee Balm, and Columbine, which offer abundant nectar throughout the seasons. Coral Honeysuckle and Salvia also provide a reliable food source from spring through fall with their vibrant, long-lasting blooms. Incorporating these plants into your garden ensures hummingbirds have the nourishment they need all season long.

Hummingbirds need more than just food—they require safe spaces to rest and refuel. Native shrubs and small trees provide perching spots, offering protection from predators and a place to conserve energy between feedings.

Adding a water feature can also enhance your garden’s allure. Though hummingbirds don’t bathe in traditional birdbaths, they enjoy sipping from shallow water sources. A gently bubbling fountain or a small dish with fresh water can entice them to linger longer.

Keep It Clean: Maintain Feeders and Gardens

A clean environment is essential for keeping hummingbirds healthy. Wash feeders with hot water and a hummingbird feeder brush at least once a week, increasing frequency in warmer weather. Remove any old nectar before refilling to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Likewise, maintaining your hummingbird-friendly plants ensures a continuous nectar supply. Regularly prune dead blooms, keep plants well-watered, and trim overgrown foliage to maintain an inviting space.

Patience Pays Off: Watch and Enjoy

Early scouts may start arriving in Virginia as early as late February, but peak migration typically occurs in April. Be patient and observant as you await their return. Once they find a reliable food source, hummingbirds are known to revisit the same locations year after year. By preparing your garden now, you’ll soon be rewarded with the mesmerizing sight of hummingbirds zipping through your yard.

With a little preparation and patience, you'll soon be welcoming hummingbirds into your backyard. Visit Pleasants Hardware to find everything you need to get started. We look forward to helping you create the perfect hummingbird haven!