How to Balance Native and Invasive Plants for a Hummingbird-Friendly Garden

Balancing Hummingbird-Friendly Native and Invasive Plants in Your Garden

Table of Contents

Introduction

Gardening with the goal of attracting hummingbirds has become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts in the USA. These tiny, jewel-like birds bring vibrant energy to any garden, delighting both seasoned gardeners and novices alike. However, a dilemma often arises: should gardeners focus on native plants, which lean toward supporting the local ecosystem, or should they incorporate invasive plants that hummingbirds also find irresistible? This article provides balanced advice on integrating hummingbird-friendly plants into gardens, while managing the challenges posed by invasive species.

Invasive Plants That Attract Hummingbirds

While native plants are generally preferred in any ecological landscaping plan, several invasive species also provide significant nectar sources for hummingbirds. Here are some notable examples:

Cameleon ground cover: Known for its vibrant, color-changing foliage, this plant covers ground quickly and can attract hummingbirds with its occasional blooms.
Trumpet vine: Its large, trumpet-shaped flowers are a favorite among hummingbirds, offering abundant nectar.
Coral honeysuckle: A vigorously growing vine with tubular flowers, this plant is very popular among hummingbirds despite its invasive tendencies.
Jewelweed: Especially attractive to hummingbirds in the fall, this plant’s bright, orange flowers provide a substantial nectar source.
Fireweed: Beyond its beauty and rapid growth, fireweed’s ecological benefits include improving soil conditions and attracting a variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds.

Pros and Cons of Using Invasive Plants

When considering the inclusion of invasive plants, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully.

Pros:

Highly attractive to hummingbirds, providing abundant nectar sources.
Aggressive growth can cover large areas quickly, which may help outcompete other problematic invasive species.

Cons:

Potential to damage local ecosystems by outcompeting native plants.
Difficult to control, particularly in small spaces, leading to excessive spread.
Risk of spreading to neighboring properties, causing wider ecological harm.

Special Pieces of Advice (Gold Nuggets)

Incorporating certain invasive plants in a controlled manner can offer unique benefits. Here are some specific insights:

Coral Honeysuckle: Despite being aggressive, coral honeysuckle is a preferred nectar source for hummingbirds and is almost native, reducing some ecological concerns. Use it strategically to outcompete other more damaging invasive honeysuckles.
Jewelweed: Ideal for larger gardens where it can form a blanket cover. This plant attracts hummingbirds heavily in the fall, but be aware of seasonal erosion issues since it’s an annual. Mitigate erosion by integrating it with other stabilizing plants.
Fireweed: Besides attracting a range of pollinators, fireweed seeds prolifically and blooms constantly. It also helps improve soil conditions for other plants, supporting soil health and regeneration after disturbances.

Balancing Act: Native vs Invasive Plants

To create a sustainable hummingbird-friendly garden, consider these points:

1. Use Native Plants:
Native plants supporting local ecosystems are crucial. They require less maintenance, support biodiversity, and reduce the need for chemical interventions.

2. Select Invasive Plants Carefully:
While certain invasive plants can attract hummingbirds effectively, they should be used under controlled conditions. Techniques for controlling aggressive invasive plants include regular trimming, controlled seeding, and designated planting areas.

3. Integrate Both Types:
Blend native and invasive species thoughtfully. Engage in periodic evaluation and maintenance to ensure that neither type overtakes the garden. Managing seasonal erosion with annual plants can also enhance infrastructure stability and reduce ecological damage.

Case Study: A Hummingbird-Friendly Garden Plan

Consider creating a balanced garden by mixing natives like figworts with invasives like jewelweed and coral honeysuckle:

Step-by-Step Guide:

Sketch the Garden Layout: Plan the arrangement considering existing features and sun exposure.
Plant Native Figworts: These provide stable, long-lasting nectar sources.
Add Coral Honeysuckle: Train it on trellises to control its spread and balance its aggressive nature.
Incorporate Jewelweed: Place it in areas prone to erosion, blending it with perennial ground cover to manage soil stability.
Evaluate Regularly: Monitor the garden and manage overgrowth through trimming and replanting as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a hummingbird-friendly garden requires a thoughtful balance between native and select invasive plants. Native plants are vital for supporting local ecosystems and sustainability, while specific invasive species can provide abundant nectar sources if managed carefully. Experiment with a mix of plants, maintain regular garden checks, and enjoy the vibrancy and joy that hummingbirds bring to your outdoor space. By making informed choices, you can cultivate a beautiful garden that harmoniously supports both your local environment and the hummingbirds.

Resources:

Ben Vogt’s article on managing aggressive plants in small spaces