Plant Bee Balm in Fall: Plant bee balm (Monarda) in late fall or early spring to ensure it blooms when the hummingbirds arrive. This flowering plant provides a great nectar source.
Provide Winter Food: In the winter, keep hummingbird feeders stocked with sugar water to support any lingering hummers, especially if your bee balm isn't blooming yet.
Create Shelter: Plant shrubs and trees around your yard for winter shelter. This will help hummingbirds stay safe and cozy as they migrate through or rest in your area.
Keep Feeders Clean: Regularly clean and refill hummingbird feeders in winter to prevent mold and bacteria from building up, ensuring a safe feeding environment.
Mulch Around Bee Balm: Apply mulch around your bee balm in winter to protect the roots from frost, ensuring healthy growth when the spring sun arrives.
Offer Water: Set up a heated birdbath or shallow water dish in your yard. Water is essential for both hummingbirds and bees, especially during cold months when natural sources may freeze.
Prune Dead Growth: In late winter, prune back dead or damaged stems of your bee balm to encourage healthy, vigorous growth in spring, which will attract hummingbirds when it starts to bloom.