June 06

California Hummingbirds–Cyanthus latirostris (Broad-billed Hummingbird)
5. Cyanthus latirostris -Broad-billed Hummingbird The broad-billed hummingbird measures 3-1/4”-4” in length with 4.7” wingspan. Both sexes have usual bronze-green on top, and broad, blue-black forked tails. Vocalization is a rapid, chattering “chi-dit” or “ji-dit.” Male Description  Adult male glistens … Continue reading →

7:45 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

June 03

California Hummingbirds–Lampornis clemenciae (Blue-throated Hummingbird)
4.  Lampornis clemenciae (Blue-throated Hummingbird) The Blue-throated Hummingbird is a large hummingbird, almost the size of some sparrows, with its length at 4.5-5.5 inches, and an 8 inch wing span.  Both sexes have a long, thin bill, a prominent white … Continue reading →

7:06 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

May 28

California Hummingbirds–Archilochus alexandri (Black-chinned Hummingbird)
3.  Archilochus alexandri (Black-chinned Hummingbird)  When compared to other hummingbirds, the black-chinned hummingbird has a smaller head, thinner neck, and a much more slender body.  The black-chinned hummingbird is about 3 inches in length, has long wings with blunt curved … Continue reading →

7:12 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

May 27

California Hummingbirds–Calypte Anna (Anna’s Hummingbird)
2.  Calypte anna, Anna’s Hummingbird.  This is a common backyard bird, and a year-round resident in most areas.  The Anna’s Hummingbird is one of only three species that are permanent residents of the United States (Allen’s and Costa’s are the … Continue reading →

7:56 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

May 26

California Hummingbirds–Selashorus sasin (Allen’s Hummingbird)
While 27 species of hummingbirds have been documented in the United States, only 14 of those are documented in California.  1.  Selashorus sasin (Allen’s Hummingbird)   About 3” long with long, straight, thin black bill.  Male Description Adult males have an … Continue reading →

7:31 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

May 21

More Hummingbird-Attracting Plants!
Abelia floribunda, Mexican abelia Abelia grandiflora, Glossy abelia Abelia species, Abelia Abutilon x hybridum, Flowering maple Abutilon megapotamicum, Trailing flowering maple Acacia, Acacia Aechmea, Aechmea Aesculus californica, California buckeye Aesculus carnea, Red horsechestnut Aesculus glabra, Ohio Buckeye Aesculus hippocastanum, Horsechestnut … Continue reading →

5:26 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

April 24

Evaluating Iris Seedlings
Even the amateur hybridizer should have some knowledge of what characteristics improve the quality of the iris flower.  This knowledge should assist the amateur in determining what to aim for and how to best evaluate the resulting seedlings.  Color The … Continue reading →

7:50 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

April 17

Prepare your Iris Beds and Grow Healthy Vigorous Iris!
Look what I caught hanging out inside one of my rubber boots this week!  A sure sign that spring is on its way!   Time to start preparing your iris beds!   The three most important ingredients for growing healthy and … Continue reading →

7:10 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)

April 16

Perfect Hummingbird Flowers
Since the floral needs of hummingbirds are so specialized, if the hummingbird gardener offers the right flowers, you are almost guaranteed a hummingbird will visit your garden to seek out your nectar source(s).  Hummingbirds and the flowers they pollinate evolved … Continue reading →

7:38 AM GMT  |  Read comments(2)

April 13

Growing Bearded Irises from Seed
There are a number of different methods of planting iris seeds.  The easiest method is to plant them outdoors in a sunny location in rows.  The soil should be prepared the same as that prepared for planting iris rhizomes.  Seeds … Continue reading →

7:08 AM GMT  |  Read comments(0)