As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, November may seem like an unusual time to focus on planting. However, this month presents a unique opportunity for gardeners to create vibrant habitats that will attract hummingbirds in the coming seasons. By selecting the right trees and bushes, you can establish a stunning garden that not only beautifies your space but also provides food and shelter for these fascinating birds. This article explores colorful trees and bushes ideal for November planting, offering insights into their benefits and care.
Why Plant in November?
1. Optimal Planting Conditions
November offers mild temperatures in many regions, making it a suitable time for planting. The cooler weather reduces stress on newly planted trees and bushes, allowing their roots to establish before the winter frost sets in. Furthermore, the soil is still warm enough to encourage root growth, making it a prime time for planting.
2. Support for Wildlife
Many birds migrate south for the winter, but some species, including hummingbirds, remain in warmer areas or return early. By planting trees and shrubs that provide nectar and shelter, you create a sanctuary that supports these beautiful creatures throughout the year.
3. Enhanced Garden Aesthetics
Fall foliage can be spectacular, but with the right selections, your garden can remain vibrant and colorful through winter and into spring. Selecting the right plants will ensure that your landscape is not only functional but visually appealing.
Best Trees for Attracting Hummingbirds
1. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
The flowering dogwood is a stunning choice that offers seasonal interest. In spring, its beautiful white or pink flowers bloom, attracting hummingbirds. The tree also produces bright red berries in the fall, providing food for various bird species. It thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and partial shade, making it a versatile addition to many gardens.
2. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Red maples are renowned for their vibrant red foliage in the fall, adding a burst of color to any landscape. They produce small red flowers in early spring, which are a great food source for hummingbirds. This tree is adaptable to various soil types and can grow in both wet and dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for different garden environments.
3. Crimson King Maple (Acer platanoides ‘Crimson King’)
This cultivar of the Norway maple is famous for its deep burgundy leaves that hold their color throughout the growing season. In spring, it produces small flowers that attract hummingbirds. The Crimson King Maple is tolerant of various soil types and is known for its rapid growth, making it an excellent option for quick shade.
4. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
The Eastern Redbud is a stunning small tree that produces bright pink flowers in early spring before its heart-shaped leaves emerge. These flowers are a valuable food source for hummingbirds. Its beautiful foliage turns yellow in the fall, ensuring year-round interest in your garden. This tree prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade.
5. Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)
The tulip tree is known for its unique tulip-shaped flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer. These flowers attract hummingbirds and are followed by attractive yellow and green foliage that turns golden in fall. This large tree needs ample space and prefers well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
Ideal Bushes for Hummingbirds
1. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
Butterfly bush is a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies alike. Its long, dense flower spikes bloom from summer to fall, providing a continuous source of nectar. Available in various colors, including purple, pink, and white, this bush is not only attractive but also easy to maintain. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun.
2. Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia)
Red hot poker plants produce striking torch-like flowers that are a favorite among hummingbirds. These perennial plants bloom in late spring to early summer and come in shades of orange, red, and yellow. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun, making them perfect for borders or mixed gardens.
3. Fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica)
Fuchsia plants are known for their drooping, colorful flowers that can bloom from summer into fall. Their vibrant hues of red, pink, and purple attract hummingbirds effectively. Fuchsia prefers well-drained, moist soil and partial shade, making them excellent for hanging baskets or shaded garden spots.
4. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Crape myrtles are famous for their long-lasting summer blooms and vibrant fall foliage. The flowers come in shades of pink, white, red, and purple, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and can be shaped into various forms, making them versatile landscape plants.
5. Winter Honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima)
This bush produces fragrant yellow flowers in late winter to early spring, providing an early food source for hummingbirds returning from migration. Winter honeysuckle is a hardy shrub that thrives in various soil types and offers beautiful green foliage throughout the growing season.
Planting Tips for November
1. Prepare the Soil
Before planting, ensure that the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Amend heavy clay or sandy soils with compost to improve fertility and drainage. Test the pH level to ensure it is suitable for the plants you intend to grow.
2. Choose the Right Location
Select a planting location that provides adequate sunlight for the trees and bushes. Most hummingbird-attracting plants thrive in full sun, so aim for a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.
3. Watering
Water the newly planted trees and shrubs thoroughly to help them establish their roots. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. As winter approaches, reduce watering but ensure the plants do not dry out completely.
4. Mulching
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Mulching also helps regulate soil temperature, providing a stable environment for the roots.
5. Fertilization
Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth, especially in the spring when new growth emerges. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can lead to weak plants that are more susceptible to disease.
Conclusion: Cultivating a Hummingbird Haven
November is an excellent time to plant colorful trees and bushes that will attract hummingbirds and enhance your garden’s aesthetic appeal. By selecting the right plants, preparing the soil, and following proper care guidelines, you can create a thriving habitat for these captivating birds. As the seasons change, your garden will come alive with color, beauty, and the delightful presence of hummingbirds.
In addition to benefiting wildlife, this approach allows you to enjoy the vibrant blooms throughout the colder months, offering a welcoming oasis for birds and a source of joy for yourself. So grab your gardening tools and start planning for a colorful, hummingbird-friendly garden that will flourish through the seasons!
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