For attracting hummingbirds, a liquid solution of one part granulated
sugar and four parts water is recommended (a weaker, less
expensive solution of one part sugar to five parts water also may be
acceptable). One cup of sugar mixed with four cups of water makes
a good amount for starters. Bring the water to a rolling boil and add
the sugar, stirring the mixture to dissolve the sugar completely. Let
the sugar solution cool to room temperature and fill the hummingbird
feeder. The feeder should be checked every two to three days
to be refilled. At least once a week it should be washed completely
with hot, soapy water, then rinsed very thoroughly to deter growth
of molds and bacteria, which can grow rapidly in the sugar solution
on warm summer days and may be harmful to hummingbirds. Mixtures
of honey and water are not recommended because they can
mold more rapidly and may lead to illness or death for hummingbirds
eating it.