Reiman Gardens Hummingbird Guide

    Ames, Story CountyUniversity GardenAdmission: Paid

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    NectarBloom 2 lb bag — pure cane sugar hummingbird nectar

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    • No boiling, no dye
    • The same sugar hummingbird flowers make
    • One ingredient, nothing else: 100% pure cane sugar
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    Overview

    Situated on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Reiman Gardens is a 17-acre public botanical garden with over 6,000 types of plants, including a dedicated Pollinator Plant Collection spanning dozens of native and cultivated species attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its Buck Rose Collection, Viburnum Collection, and perennial borders offer continuous bloom from spring through fall. The garden is closely tied to ISU's horticultural research and education programs, regularly evaluating plants for pollinator performance.

    Hummingbirds to Watch For

    • • Ruby-throated

    Most Common Hummingbird

    The most commonly sighted hummingbird at Reiman Gardens is the Ruby-throated.

    Best Time to Visit

    Plan your visit during June, July, August for the highest chance of hummingbird sightings. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the most active feeding times.

    Plants and Habitat

    • • Salvia / sage (red and blue salvias in annual plantings)
    • • Bee balm (*Monarda* spp.)
    • • Cardinal flower (*Lobelia cardinalis*)
    • • Wild columbine (*Aquilegia canadensis*)
    • • Penstemon (*Penstemon* spp.)
    • • Coneflower / echinacea

    NectarBloom Tip

    The Pollinator Plant Collection is clearly labeled throughout the perennial beds and is the best section to target for hummingbird activity. When navigating to Reiman Gardens, search for "intersection of University Boulevard and South 16th Street, Ames" to find the correct entrance.

    Visitor Notes

    Admission required. Open year-round with seasonal hours. ADA accessible throughout main garden paths. Butterfly House separately ticketed.

    Map

    Ruby-throated near Salvia / sage (red and blue salvias in annual plantings) at Reiman Gardens in Iowa

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