How to Create Your Own Butterfly Garden!
What is a butterfly
garden?
A butterfly garden is a space you can create that provides nectar and shelter for butterflies and other pollinating insects, as well as a place for Monarch Butterflies to ay their eggs. Gardens like these are important for the growth of the Monarch Butterfly population and are a lovely space to enjoy as well. Because we need to cater to the butterflies and the caterpillars, there are two parts to the garden: butterfly attracting and caterpullar nourishment.
How to Attract Butterflies to Your Garden
Are you dreaming of a butterfly haven right in your yard? Let’s have a conversation! We can map out your space and explore different plants and flowers that will attract not only Monarchs but also a variety of other pollinators.
​
​
Garden Location:
​
-
Butterflies typically only feed in full sun so make sure you plant your nectar flowers in full sunshine. Also, make sure this planting is sheltered from the wind.
-
Provide shelter. Butterflies, bees and other pollinators need shelter to hide from predators. Let a pile of grass cuttings or a log decompose in a sunny place on the ground. Allow a dea tree to stand to create nooks for butterflies and solitary bees.
-
Even if you have a very small garden or courtyard, you can still do your bit to attract the bees and butterflies by having one or two hanging baskets or a plant pot with a few nectar flowers in it.
-
Butterflies are attracted to muddy puddles which they will flock to for salts and nutrients as well as water. Bees, birds and butterflies also all need water, so having a birdbath somewhere to catch the rain is a really good idea.
Caring for Caterpillars and Milkweed
Milkweed plays a vital role in the breeding of the Monarch butterfly population. It is the exclusive food source for monarch caterpillars and the only plant on which monarch butterflies lay their eggs. By planting milkweed in your garden or along roadsides, you can help bolster monarch populations, as it serves as an excellent nectar source for pollinators and a crucial host plant for these butterflies.
​
To create a welcoming environment for monarchs, select native milkweed species, plant them in full sunlight with well-drained soil, and provide ample space for growth. Additionally, consider grouping the plants together and refrain from using pesticides or harmful chemicals nearby.
Helpful Garden Hints
-
Refrain from using insecticides, as they eliminate beneficial insects. Opt for organic solutions instead. Spraying harmful chemicals disrupts the natural organisms in your soil and risks upsetting the delicate ecosystem of your garden.
-
Set aside a section of your lawn to let the grass grow without mowing, and scatter wildflower seeds. This will transform the area into a beautiful meadow, providing a delightful habitat for birds. Additionally, a patch filled with colorful flowers will enhance the visual appeal, creating a true paradise for pollinators!
-
January marks the peak season for Monarch butterflies, which is when garden centers typically run out of swan plants. It’s crucial to have your own supply of these plants ready for the influx of eggs and caterpillars. Plan ahead by starting seeds in September.
-
The best times to water your garden are in the morning or evening, as watering during the day can lead to evaporation and damage the flowering leaves. This practice also helps conserve water.