How to Grow Hummingbird Lunch Plant Indoors

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures known for their beautiful colors and ability to hover in mid-air. They are also voracious eaters, consuming up to half of their body weight in nectar each day. If you want to attract these delightful birds to your home, why not consider growing a hummingbird lunch plant indoors? Not only will it provide a nutritious food source for hummingbirds, but it will also add a touch of natural beauty to your living space. In this article, we will guide you through the process of growing a hummingbird lunch plant indoors.

Choosing the Right Plant

The first step in growing a hummingbird lunch plant indoors is selecting the right plant species. There are several plants that are known to be favorites of hummingbirds, including:

1. Salvia: Salvia is a popular choice among hummingbirds due to its vibrant flowers and high nectar content. Varieties such as Salvia splendens (scarlet sage) and Salvia guaranitica (anise-scented sage) are particularly attractive to these birds.

2. Fuchsia: Fuchsia plants produce pendulous flowers that are perfect for attracting hummingbirds. Their tubular blooms are rich in nectar and come in various colors, making them an excellent addition to any indoor garden.

3. Honeysuckle: Honeysuckle vines can be grown indoors if provided with proper support. These plants produce fragrant flowers that hummingbirds find irresistible.

4. Trumpet Vine: Trumpet vines are known for their bright orange or red trumpet-shaped flowers that have a sweet nectar. They can be trained to grow indoors by providing them with a trellis or support system.

Creating the Ideal Growing Environment

Once you have chosen the plant species that you want to grow, it’s important to create the ideal growing environment for it. Here are a few key factors to consider:

Lighting

Hummingbird lunch plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a south-facing window where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. If natural light is insufficient, you can supplement it with artificial grow lights.

Temperature and Humidity

Most hummingbird lunch plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). They also appreciate higher humidity levels, which can be achieved by placing a humidifier nearby or by using a pebble tray filled with water.

Soil and Watering

Use a well-draining potting mix for your hummingbird lunch plant. Water the plant thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilizer

To promote healthy growth and blooming, fertilize your plant with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper dilution ratios.

Planting and Care Tips

Now that you have created the ideal growing environment, it’s time to plant your hummingbird lunch plant and take care of it properly. Consider these tips:

1. Container Size: Choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots but not too big that it retains excess moisture. A pot with drainage holes is essential to prevent waterlogging.

2. Pruning: Regularly prune your hummingbird lunch plant to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, as well as spent flowers.

3. Repotting: As your plant grows, you may need to repot it into a larger container every year or two. This will give the roots more room to spread and prevent them from becoming root-bound.

4. Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as aphids or spider mites. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or try natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Enjoying the Hummingbirds

Once your hummingbird lunch plant is thriving and flowering, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the delightful visits from these tiny birds. You can place a hummingbird feeder near the plant to attract them further. Remember to keep the feeder clean and filled with fresh nectar to ensure their continued presence.

It’s important to note that while indoor plants can attract hummingbirds, they may not provide all the nutrients these birds need for a well-rounded diet. Therefore, it’s essential to supplement their food source with natural nectar plants or commercially available hummingbird food.

In conclusion, growing a hummingbird lunch plant indoors can be a rewarding experience that brings nature closer to your living space. By selecting the right plant species and providing the ideal growing conditions, you can create an inviting habitat for these beautiful creatures. So why not give it a try and enjoy the enchanting visits of hummingbirds right in your own home?