If you have a home garden, you’ve probably seen butterflies flutter from time to time. These insects are not only beautiful, colorful and delicate, but they also contribute to the pollination of plants. Therefore, these animals are essential for our ecosystem. If you want butterflies to come to your garden, you will have to find out what their favorite plants are. Take note!
Research the butterfly species in your area
Not all butterflies are created equal, so you will have to research which species live near you. If you have questions, you can check on the internet or talk to gardeners in your area. Surely they will know how to inform you about what type of plants are the most suitable.
On the other hand, adult butterflies usually get most of their food from the nectar produced by certain flowers. Although some species prefer a particular plant, they typically feed on any nectar-producing plant, especially those with brightly colored flowers.
Among the plants that produce nectar and that are a source of food for butterflies are purple, calendula or milkweed. It also highlights the zinnia, asters and the cosmos flower, among many others.
Choose plants where butterflies can lay eggs
Once you have identified the butterflies in your area, you will need to place host plants where they can lay their eggs. Monarch butterflies, for example, often lay their eggs on milkweed, as it is the only plant that monarch caterpillars feed on. Instead, black swallowtail butterflies prefer to lay their eggs on parsley, fennel, or carrot plants.
Place a tray with fruits in the garden
If you want to give the butterflies more nutrients, you could put a small tray filled with cut pieces of fruit, including the pulp and peels. Butterflies like red-spotted purple and admirals especially enjoy sliced oranges, pears, apples, or melons.
Also, if the plants in your garden have not yet flowered, you can place a butterfly feeder. Fill the feeder with nectar and hang it on a tree near your garden. You can also make butterfly food by mixing one part sugar with one part water. You will need to bring the mixture to a boil and wait for it to cool before adding it to the feeder. Butterflies sure can’t resist!
