So
here we are into our multiple week journey of staying-in-place. It is amazing
that no matter how restricted we are for
the greater good, nature still goes on & we are home to enjoy it!! When we go for our walks or just look out
the window - spring is still happening gardening, nature loving readers! No
virus or border restrictions will stop spring from going on right before our
eyes..
One
of the most exciting spring happenings for me is the return of the
Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds. Passing over borders & state lines, these fearless
migrators can travel up to 23 miles in a single day! You know adversity is
there to meet them on this journey and yet these tiny flying jewels soldier on
& on. I know we all can too!! What a testament to determination. Below is
the link to a migration map so you can follow their journey to you. Remember welcome
them with a clean feeder with a mixture of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. Extra
can be stored in the fridge for a couple of weeks. Remember, no red dye needed.
And to keep them here all summer perennial plantings like bee balm, trumpet
flower, honeysuckle & coral bells are perfect . Any red annual flowers &
red garden decor help draw them into your garden also. Order some red spray
paint on-line & have fun with up cycling some tired plant hangers & the
such! Have fun with it. Once hummingbirds are actively feeding, since you have
time, you can hand feed them too. During this busy feeding time, just take the
feeder down and stand with it in your hand holding it up. Be still & quiet
& they will come to you. This might take some tries but so worth it! Up
close & personal is the ultimate way to see these tiny jewels!
 |
| Female Ruby-Throated on my bee balm - all summer long! |
Determination of spirit and instinct
make the monarch butterfly a marvel to our own backyards in nature. The 4 generations
of monarchs in one year from fall migration to Mexico & the their journey
north well, volumes have been written! Not habitat loss nor weather conditions
will keep them from their journey. It is
in our DNA to be strong & weather the conditions, adjust to our new
habitats & come out the other side too! In the meantime, you can check
out the link below to follow the migration north & learn some interesting
facts about these amazing butterflies. Planting annual zinnias & lantana,
perennial butterfly bush & coneflowers will keep them in your garden all
summer long. Stay safe - stay put &
enjoy your gardens!
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