Gardening for Butterflies
Many of the prime habitats for butterflies have been lost to urbanization
over the years. Widespread use of pesticides and herbacides have also contributed to the loss of the milkweed and other
nectar sources. By creating or protecting these habitats, we are contributing to the conservation of some wonderful species.
There are hundreds of different species of butterflies and moths in North America. They hatch into larvae or caterpillars,
become pupae, and develop into colorful adults. How long the process takes depends on the species and the climate.
Butterflies need a place to lay their eggs and two types of plants for survival. One plant will provide food
for the caterpillars, and another plant will provide food for the butterflies. Some larvae consume tremendous amounts
of plant material, seemingly devouring plants overnight. Adult butterflies require food in liquid form such as plant-produced
nectar. They get some of it from flowers and from juices of extra-ripe fruit. The types of flowering plants you grow will
determine the kinds of butterflies you attract to your backyard.
Butterflies also need a source of water. A shallow
dish of water or a depression in a rock that retains water is all they need. Butterflies need to be warm in order to fly.
They love to warm themselves on rocks that have been warmed by the sun. You can replicate this by placing flat rocks in sunny
locations through out your garden.
Before you begin, find out what kinds of butterflies frequent your area. You
can do this by watching and using a butterfly guide, call your local extension agent, or check some of the listings below.
Host Plants for Caterpillars and Butterflies
Top 10 Butterfly Favorites |
Milkweeds (Asclepias species) |
Butterfly Bush (Buddleia species) |
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Coneflower (Echinacea species) |
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Parsley
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Zinnias
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Other Options for Attracting
Butterflies
Flowers and plants are the butterflies favorites choice for food, but there
are other options they love as well.
Over ripe Fruit: Butterflies
love over ripe fruit such as apples, bananas, plums, cherries, pears, etc. Simply place pieces of the fruit on a clean plate
or dish. You can also hang the dishes in trees or place them on the ground.
Nectar
in a dish: Place a clean sponge or scrubbie (a dish scrubber made of plastic) in a bowl. Fill the bowl with nectar
to just above the height of the sponge.
