How To: Homemade Hummingbird Food

Why pay for pre-packaged hummingbird nectar when it costs pennies to make it at home—and takes very little effort?

Here’s how easy it is:

1. Gather your supplies—You’ll need

   -1 Cup of granulated white sugar

   -4 Cups of water

   -a saucepan

   -a whisk

   -a sealable container large enough to hold at least 30 ounces of liquid (in this case, I’m using two pint-size Ball / Mason jars)—be sure to wash and dry thoroughly first

2. Wash the saucepan, jars, and feeder thoroughly and dry.

3. Mix water and sugar in saucepan. Turn heat on high and whisk until sugar has completely dissolved.

4. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and boil for 5 minutes to remove any contaminates.

5. Pour into containers and store in refrigerator.

6. When cool, add nectar to your hummingbird feeders. I generally get 3 to 4 servings from this recipe.

7. Lasts in the fridge for about 2-3 weeks. Watch for any cloudiness or fluffy white debris forming near the bottom—do not use if you see this.

Change hummingbird food 1 to 2 times a week, depending on outdoor temperatures.