Hummingbird feeders are tedious. Here is everything you need to know to maintain them
WGN’s plant daddy Tim Joyce is back with gardening tips for the season, including all you need to know about your hummingbird feeders.
Tim says it is good to put them up about now. Mid to late April is what most experts recommend.
Is a hummingbird feeder like a regular bird feeder?
It is important to note that hummingbird feeders are much more high maintenance than a regular bird feeder. In cooler weather temperatures below 70, you should change the nectar out once a week.
When temperatures are warmer, between 70 and 80 degrees, you will want to change out the nectar twice a week and inspect it to make sure it is fresh.
Will lilies survive in your backyard this summer in Chicago?
If it is above 80 degrees, out will want to change out the nectar every one or two days, but hummingbirds have huge appetites in warm weather.
In cooler weather when temps are below 70 you should change the nectar out once a week.
Spoiled nectar looks cloudy, can smell off or have mold, but the best sign nectar has gone bad is if you don’t have any hummingbirds. They can usually tell when a nectar is off before we humans can.
Where should I place my hummingbird feeder?
The website MyBirdGarden.com suggest positioning them away from direct sunlight, within easy reach so you can refill and clean it — so near porches, patios, or paths.
You’ll want it high enough to prevent predators like cats from reaching it– but not much higher than about 6-10 feet off the ground and away from windows and tall trees.
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