Stunning Gardening Guide: Best Native Hummingbird Plants for Brevard County
Growing Zones and Best Hummingbird Plants of Brevard County, Florida’s Space Coast
Understanding the Growing Zone of Brevard County
Growing zones are essential for determining which plants will thrive in specific areas. Brevard County, located in central Florida on the state’s Space Coast, falls primarily within USDA Hardiness Zones 9b and 10a. This unique climate provides gardeners with a long growing season and the opportunity to plant a wide variety of flowering plants that appeal to wildlife, including hummingbirds.
Native Hummingbird Plants for Brevard County
If you’re aiming to attract hummingbirds, selecting native plants ensures resilience and lower maintenance. In Brevard County, one stellar choice is the Firebush (Hamelia patens). This shrub not only adapts well to Florida’s climate but also produces a bounty of bright, tubular flowers that are rich in nectar, which is perfect for hummingbirds. Firebush can flourish with minimal care once established, making it an ideal candidate for gardeners looking to enjoy the delights of these buzzing birds without constant upkeep.
In addition to the Firebush, the Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is another native vine that’s highly effective at attracting hummingbirds. Unlike its invasive cousin, the Japanese Honeysuckle, Coral Honeysuckle is non-aggressive and sports beautiful, trumpet-shaped red flowers, which serve as an abundant source of nectar. This vine is particularly appealing for those looking to add vertical interest in their gardens, as it climbs gracefully over trellises and fences.
Other Native Plants to Entice Hummingbirds
Beyond the alluring Firebush and Coral Honeysuckle, Brevard County residents have other fantastic native options to consider. The Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans) is a robust, fast-growing vine known for its spectacular orange to red flowers. It’s especially hardy and can cover large areas quickly, making it an excellent choice for privacy screens or covering unsightly structures while also drawing in hummingbirds.
Another less known but equally beneficial plant is the Wild Sage (Salvia coccinea). This easy-to-grow perennial provides spikes of red or pink flowers almost year-round, which are highly attractive to both hummingbirds and butterflies. Wild Sage requires little care once established, handling both drought and the sandy soils often found in Brevard County.
Planting and Care Tips to Maximize Attraction
To create a hummingbird haven in your garden, consider planting a mix of these native plants. Incorporating varieties that bloom at different times of the year can provide a continuous food source for hummingbirds. Ensure to place your hummingbird plants in areas where they can receive ample sunlight as most flowering plants that attract hummingbirds thrive in full sun to partial shade.
Regular watering during the first year of planting ensures a healthy root system, but once established, many of Florida’s native plants become drought tolerant. Minimal use of pesticides is also crucial as hummingbirds, and other pollinators are sensitive to chemicals.
Conclusion
Gardening in Brevard County offers a unique opportunity to engage in an eco-friendly practice that supports local wildlife. By choosing plants like Firebush, Coral Honeysuckle, Trumpet Creeper, and Wild Sage, you not only cultivate a beautiful garden but also contribute to the conservation of hummingbirds, adding vibrancy and motion to your outdoor space. With these native plants, gardeners can enjoy a stunning landscape that requires minimal upkeep while playing a role in preserving the natural ecosystem of Florida’s Space Coast. So, plant these native florae and watch as your garden becomes a buzzing haven for some of nature’s most fascinating creatures.
