Please see the “Birds” tab under Groups for the results of our Hummingbird census.
Thanks to all who participated! Live life outdoors!
Hummingbird Census Update
Planting Natives for Hummingbirds, Butterflies & Bees
One of my absolutely favorite natives to have around. This is Coral Honeysuckle, Lonicera sempervirens , not to be confused with the white, invasive Japanese Honeysuckle, Lonicera japonica, the Coral Honeysuckle has no fragrance for humans to enjoy. But no fragrance is needed for the pollinators. It will bloom in early spring for the first migrants; then off and on until the first cold snap. While my original primary interest in the vine was attracting the hummers, I am learning the fruits, when available, will feed Goldfinch, Hermit Thrush, American Robin and Quail.
When looking for this vine to plant, look for the scientific name and watch carefully for the many cultivars that can be found. Plan to provide support of some kind. You will not regret adding this to your organic garden.
A Wonderful & Versatile Native Shrub
We planted this wonderful native down on our dry weather creek for bank stability. This plant likes/needs wet feet, and is perfect for the task. This is the Buttonbush Cephalanthus occidentalis. It can grow to 18′ tall and 10′ wide in full sun. The blossom looks like a button, as you can see and attracts all the pollinators; look for butterflies, bees and hummingbirds to come to it once established. It is particularly favored by our native bees. The plant is deciduous, but in my experience, some stems freeze back to the ground. The plant recovers each year to bloom in the summer. I found that used in a pond environment, any submerged portion will provide habitat for amphibians, reptiles, ducks, and fish. Some 25 species of birds eat the seeds. A native worth planting by our creeks and ponds.
This picture shows the “button” later in the season, about to go to seed.