Design a Butterfly Garden

To have a successful butterfly garden just follow these easy steps and watch your garden grow.

Location, Location, Location

First, select the location of your garden in an area that receives plenty of sunshine at least 5-6 hours each day. Butterflies need warmth to fly and most butterfly plants require sun. Also recommend locating your garden near a window so you can view the butterfly activity.

Create a Menu

Choose plants that will attract butterflies in all stages of their life cycle. The best garden plan includes a combination of both HOST PLANTS (caterpillars feed on the leaves) and NECTAR FLOWERS (butterflies feed on the nectar in the flowers).

Every species of butterfly has its specific plant preference; study the species most likely to be found in your region. Highly recommend native plants as they are usually easier to care for and are designed for the valley temperatures. Remember to use lots of compost to create a rich soil for your plants. As you near summer add sufficient mulch to prevent water loss.

Provide Shelter

Plant taller plants in the back of a border or in the middle of a circular butterfly garden so it’s easier to see the butterflies in your garden. The taller plants will help shelter the butterflies from the wind. Remember to leave room in your garden as the plants will grow, don’t overcrowd your garden.

It’s best to place several plants in a group so the butterfly can find them easily. Grouping the plants also helps the gardener care for the plants.    

Water and Rocks

You will often see butterflies around a puddle of water where they get essential minerals. You can form a shallow bowl in the ground, cover the bottom with plastic and fill with wet sand.  You can also use a shallow dish or bucket for the “puddling” area.

Rocks add an architectural element to your garden and sun bathing spots for the butterflies.  If the temperature drops below 80° F, butterflies will need to absorb heat by basking in the sun on a flat rock. Remember to add a bench for your enjoyment.

Caution

Please avoid pesticide application when possible, all life stages of the butterfly are sensitive to pesticides. Weed the old fashioned way with your hands.