Black-eyed Susans, also known as Rudbeckia hirta, are beautiful flowers that are commonly found in gardens. They are known for their vibrant yellow petals and dark brown centers, creating a striking appearance. Many people are drawn to these flowers because they attract wildlife, including birds such as hummingbirds.
Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures, known for their ability to hover in mid-air and their rapid wing beats. They are also attracted to bright and colorful flowers that are rich in nectar. While black-eyed Susans do produce nectar, they are not necessarily one of the hummingbird’s favorite sources of this sweet liquid.
Hummingbirds are highly energetic birds that require a constant supply of nectar to fuel their rapid metabolism. They are drawn to flowers that provide a high concentration of nectar, as this allows them to obtain the maximum amount of energy in the shortest amount of time. While black-eyed Susans do produce nectar, it may not be as concentrated as the nectar found in other flowers that hummingbirds prefer.
To ensure that the hummingbirds you attract with the black-eyed Susans actually spend some time in your garden, it is a good idea to provide them with an additional source of nectar. One way to do this is by placing a hummingbird feeder near the vines. Hummingbird feeders are designed specifically to hold a sugar solution that mimics the nectar found in flowers. By providing this supplemental food source, you can increase the chances of attracting and keeping hummingbirds in your garden.
When preparing the sugar solution for the hummingbird feeder, it is important to use the correct ratio of sugar to water. The recommended ratio is 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Boil the water to remove any impurities and then dissolve the sugar in the hot water. Allow the solution to cool before filling the feeder. It is important to clean the feeder regularly and refill it with fresh solution every few days to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
In addition to providing a hummingbird feeder, you can also consider planting other flowers that are known to attract hummingbirds. Some popular choices include trumpet vine, bee balm, salvia, and columbine. These flowers produce nectar that is highly appealing to hummingbirds, increasing the likelihood of attracting them to your garden.
While black-eyed Susans do produce nectar and can attract hummingbirds to some extent, they may not be their favorite source of nectar. To ensure that the hummingbirds you attract with the vines actually spend time in your garden, it is recommended to place a hummingbird feeder filled with a sugar solution near the vines. Additionally, planting other flowers known to attract hummingbirds can further enhance their presence in your garden.