One of the pleasures of being, or even just looking, outdoors is watching butterflies and hummingbirds

In eastern Nebraska, we typically see just one species of hummingbird, the ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris). Hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers and tree sap, and on small insects and spiders. While many people attract hummingbirds with feeders, it is better to draw them by planting flowers rich in nectar, which provide better nutrition. Flowers also draw spiders and aphids that hummingbirds use as a protein source. Feeders may be useful in supplementing other sources of nectar and insects (and, of course, to get them closer to your window). Or, better yet, put container pots of pentas, nasturtium or fuschia near the house to attract the hummingbirds and provide a source of natural nectar as well as insects. Because hummingbirds eat gnats and aphids, try to avoid pesticide use where they might be feeding. Another reason to limit pesticides is the potential harm to butterflies. Insecticides kill butterflies as well as other beneficial insects.

Source: Lincoln's Premier Lifestyle Magazine, 13 August 2013
http://journalstar.com/niche/l-magazine/home-and-garden/attracting-colo…
by Mari Lane Gewecke, a Master Gardener volunteer, affiliated with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus program, and a self-employed consultant
For more information on attracting butterflies and hummingbirds, including extensive plant lists, go to the University of Nebraska Extension web site at extension.unl.edu.

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