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Building a Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden: Plants and Features to Attract Pollinators During the Summer

At Nunan’s Garden Center, we believe that a vibrant garden is one that buzzes with life. This summer, why not transform your outdoor space into a haven for butterflies and hummingbirds? With the right plants and features, you can attract these delightful pollinators and enjoy a garden that is not only beautiful but also beneficial for the environment.

Choosing the Right Plants

The key to attracting butterflies and hummingbirds is selecting plants that provide the nectar and habitat they need. At Nunan’s, we grow many of the plants we sell, ensuring they are perfectly suited to our local climate and conditions. Here are some top choices for your butterfly and hummingbird garden:

  1. Butterfly Bush (Buddleia): Known for its long, fragrant flower spikes, the Butterfly Bush is a magnet for butterflies. Its continuous blooms provide a reliable nectar source throughout the summer.
  2. Bee Balm (Monarda): This vibrant perennial offers bright red, pink, or purple flowers that attract both butterflies and hummingbirds. It’s also a great plant for bees!
  3. Coneflowers (Echinacea): These hardy perennials are not only beautiful but also drought-tolerant. Their large, daisy-like flowers are a favorite of many pollinators.
  4. Salvia: Available in a variety of colors, salvias are easy to grow and very attractive to hummingbirds. Their tubular flowers are perfect for these tiny birds’ long beaks.
  5. Lantana: This plant offers clusters of small, brightly colored flowers that butterflies adore. It’s also a great option for hanging baskets or containers.
  6. Milkweed (Asclepias): Essential for the lifecycle of monarch butterflies, milkweed provides both a nectar source and a place for monarchs to lay their eggs.

Additional Features to Enhance Your Garden

In addition to the right plants, incorporating specific features can make your garden even more appealing to butterflies and hummingbirds:

  1. Hummingbird Feeders: At Nunan’s, we carry a lovely selection of hummingbird feeders. Placing these around your garden ensures that hummingbirds always have a food source, even when flowers are scarce.
  2. Water Sources: Both butterflies and hummingbirds need water. A shallow birdbath with a few stones for perching or a small water feature can provide the hydration they need.
  3. Shelter and Habitat: Dense shrubs and trees offer shelter for butterflies and hummingbirds. Consider planting a variety of heights and types to provide protection from predators and harsh weather.
  4. Avoid Pesticides: Chemical pesticides can be harmful to pollinators. Opt for natural pest control methods to keep your garden safe for butterflies and hummingbirds.

Why Choose Nunan’s?

When you shop at Nunan’s Garden Center, you’re not just buying plants – you’re investing in quality and expertise. We grow many of our plants right here, ensuring they are acclimated to our local environment. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to help you select the best plants for your specific needs and offer tips on creating the perfect pollinator-friendly garden.

So, this summer, why not create a garden that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds? With the right plants and features, you can enjoy a lively, colorful garden that supports these vital pollinators. Visit Nunan’s Garden Center today and let us help you get started on building your butterfly and hummingbird haven!

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269 Central Street
Georgetown, MA 01833
(978)352-8172
info@nunans.com

Garden Center, Nursery,
Florist Shop, and Greenhouse

Monday – Saturday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM