Butterfly Attraction 

      In creating a butterfly garden, you must provide a suitable habitat for the entire growing season. 

The garden should be sure to include:

• host plants for the larvae
• nectar plants for the adults
• water
• shelter from predators and weather
• an open area where butterflies can bask in the sun (this is an absolute necessity)
• NO INSECTICIDES of any kind

      It is extremely important that this habitat is provided on a consistent basis, so that it is stable and predictable. For example, there must always be nectar plants flowering if you want butterflies to stay in your garden.

      Butterflies lay their eggs on plants that will become food for the growing larvae. Each species of butterfly requires specific plants for their larvae to feed on. The Monarch larvae, for instance, feed on milkweed. Black Swallowtail larvae eat parsley or dill.

      Adult butterflies feed on nectar from many different types of flowers. Because they sit on the flower while they sip nectar, adults prefer plants with closely packed clusters of flowers, such as lilacs and yarrow, or composites like daisies or zinnias. They are more likely to visit flowers in the sun rather than the shade, and to be attracted to fragrant flowers rather than those without a scent.

      An important component that must be included in the garden is an area of moist sand or a mud puddle where butterflies can get their moisture and minerals. If you wish to create a congregating spot for butterflies this is a must.

      Butterflies are cold-blooded and only fly when temperatures are 60 degrees or above. On cool, cloudy, or rainy days they need a place to roost. Shrubs, tall grasses or log piles provide suitable roosting places.  Butterfly houses also may be fabricated or purchased.  A cluster of flat rocks in a sheltered area of the garden will serve as a basking place to warm them up on sunny days.  Butterflies tend to prefer to reside in an  area that is relatively calm and devoid of strong winds.

      Plan for variations in the height of plants to suit the feeding habits of various butterflies. Also, leave an open area where they can fly protected from gusty winds. Remember that insecticides can kill butterflies and their larvae. Do not use them in your butterfly garden, and always be aware that insecticides can drift into your butterfly garden from lawns and vegetable gardens.