I’ve had an ongoing problem over the last couple of years with aphids eating the tender summer growth on my Acer triflorum. Summer growth is the second surge that the tree puts on, and each year the aphids have distorted the leaves and made the last new growth of the season look pretty sad. The tree survives the infestation just fine, but it is unsightly. Plus, as the tree has gotten taller & taller, its become near impossible for me to spray the aphids to disrupt them. So, I’ve been left wondering how to get rid of the aphids organically and easily.

Well, it seems the answer is to invite in the hummingbirds! I have several that visit my garden daily throughout the year. IIn addition to having a wide assortment of spring and summer nectar producers, I’ve installed plants that flower into the late fall and others that bloom through the winter. So, the hummers love this garden. And, I’m being repaid not just with their buzzing, chirping and shining wonder, but by their carniverous habits as well.

Yesterday, I was standing under the Acer and heard a hummingbird swoop-buzz my way. It started popping its head from branch to branch in the aphid-infested top branches of the tree. I wondered at first if the tree was blooming late. Then I realized it was picking aphids off the leaves and tender branches. Clearly, a little protein must help power up these birds that are so well known as nectar feeders. I’m not sure that they’ll completely clean up the problem, but they’ve found it and recognize it as a safe source for grabbing little meaty snacks — after which they can hit foxglove, salvia, phygelius, fuchsia, petunia, mimulus, scented geranium, heliotrope, and so many other sweet nectar-filled summer flowers. And, they can (and do) grab a flowing drink now & again from my patio water feature. Truly, the garden is their unlimited smorgasborg.