This is the simplest, most effective sugar-water nectar for attracting hummingbirds. It mimics natural flower nectar and takes just minutes to make. I use this recipe daily during hummingbird season, and my feeders are always busy!
Keyword: easy nectar recipe, homemade bird food, hummingbird food recipe, sugar water for hummingbirds
Prep Time: 2 minutesminutes
Cook Time: 5 minutesminutes
Total Time: 7 minutesminutes
Servings: 1
Calories: 775kcal
Cost: 0.10
Equipment
Medium saucepan (1-qt)
Wooden Spoon
measuring cups
Clean hummingbird feeder
Ingredients
1cupwhite granulated sugardo NOT use honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners
4cupswaterfiltered or boiled tap water
Instructions
Boil water – In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil.
Add sugar – Stir in 1 cup of sugar until fully dissolved (about 1-2 minutes).
Cool completely – Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Fill feeder – Pour into a clean hummingbird feeder.
Store extras – Refrigerate unused portion in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
✔ Never use red dye – It’s unnecessary and potentially harmful.
✔ Clean feeders every 2-3 days – Prevents mold and bacteria buildup.
✔ Adjust for cold weather – Use a 1:3 sugar-to-water ratio in winter for extra energy.
✔ Avoid organic sugar – Contains trace minerals that can harm hummingbirds.
✔ Place feeders in shade – Helps prevent fermentation in hot weather.