Balcony bird feeders

[Angelwing]

So I finally picked up a bird feeder for my balcony, and put the seed that came with it (millet, sunflower seeds, those bigger, orange/brown coloured seeds, etc.) inside. There isn't anywhere to hang it, really, so I've just placed it on the floor of the balcony. I plan on adding a birdbath and some sort of saucer for mealworms/prepared birdy food/different types of seeds in a bit. I'm also going to have a pot full of colourful plants/grasses with a hummingbird feeder that hangs from a short pole in the soil (once the weather turns a bit nicer for good). I know it will be a little while before the birds notice the food, but is there anything I can do to attract them definitely/sooner? Does anybody else have a balcony bird haven?

[shortncrazy2]

I know if my yard the humming birds are always attracted to my gladiolus.
http://dating1.indiatimes.com/loveology/flower/gifs/gladiolus.jpg

[Angelwing]

Those are beautiful, I may just have to get a few. I have some flowers coming at the end of the month which will hopefully help attract the birds. Maybe I'll set out two pots instead.

[butterfly1061]

Sometimes you can find sunflower holders for the VERY large sunflower heads(the ones that grow about 6 feet tall). Birds love them. My dad use to grow them in our garden and then we would cut off the sunflower heads and throw them in the yard, but you may be able to hang them on your balcony. Sunflowers are very easy to grow. If there's somewhere nearby you can grow them, towards the end of summer you can feed the birds. :2cents:

[Angelwing]

Great idea! I'll keep a lookout for a sunflower holder.

[mjm8321]

Fuschias attract Hummers. There is also a perennial that can be grown in a large pot called Bee Balm (monarda) that attract humingbirds. Here's a link that shows what planta attract birds and butterflies. http://www.birds-n-garden.com/birdgarden.html Might give you some more ideas.

[butterfly1061]

Here's a good website for idea's of how to hang/position a sunflower head for birds. http://www.bluebirdmeadows.com/Sun-Seed-1.htm

[Angelwing]

Great sites, thanks. :)

Nobirdy's noticed the food yet...I think I'll wait until they've discovered the seed before setting out cooked foods and mealworms.