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Few garden visitors are as exciting as hummingbirds. They can appear seemingly out of nowhere, hovering in front of flowers before darting away again in a flash of color. Despite their tiny size, they bring a huge amount of energy and movement to a yard, and for many gardeners, spotting the season’s first hummingbird is one of the highlights of early summer.The good news is that attracting hummingbirds doesn't require a complete garden makeover. These birds are primarily looking for three things: food, water, and places to rest. By making a few simple changes to your outdoor space, you can create an environment that encourages them to stop by regularly throughout the season.I've found that the most successful hummingbird gardens aren’t necessarily the largest or most elaborate. Instead, they’re the ones that provide several different resources in the same space, giving hummingbirds a reason to return again and again.Here are five of the best ways to make your yard more hummingbird-friendly this June.1. Put up a hummingbird feeder
(Image credit: Shutterstock)If you're serious about attracting hummingbirds, a feeder is one of the quickest ways to get their attention. Hummingbirds consume enormous amounts of energy every day and are constantly searching for reliable nectar sources.A feeder provides a dependable food supply, particularly during migration periods or when natural flowers are scarce. Once they learn your garden is a consistent place to feed, they’re more likely to return on a regular basis.How to choose a hummingbird feederGet instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.Choose a feeder with multiple feeding ports and place it somewhere that’s easy for you to see, but also relatively sheltered from strong winds. Red feeders tend to attract attention most effectively, although it’s the nectar inside that keeps birds coming back.How to make the nectarFor the nectar solution, stick to a simple mixture of one part white sugar to four parts water. Avoid adding red dye, honey, or commercial sweeteners, which can be harmful to hummingbirds.Keep it cleanOne thing I've learned is that cleanliness matters just as much as the nectar itself. During hot weather, it’s worth cleaning feeders every few days to prevent mold and fermentation.2. Plant nectar-rich flowers — especially tubular blooms
