Butterfly gardening is easy and rewarding. All it takes is providing a few simple things that butterflies (and generally speaking all pollinators) need: nectar and host plants, shelter and water.
Here are a few simple steps to help all the pollinators in your garden:
- Do not use pesticides. Nature has a way of sorting itself out and after a while, you will notice a balance in your garden that will rarely require your intervention.
- Plant nectar and host plants. Choose plants native to the area whenever possible.
- Choose a sunny spot for your butterfly garden. Butterflies love warm and sunny areas as they are cold blooded and need to be able to warm up.
- Provide a source of water. A shallow dish with just barely any water in the bottom and some flat rocks throughout would serve both as a water source and a spot where the butterflies can soak in the sun. You can add over-ripe fruit for their benefit as well.
- Choose a somewhat sheltered spot for your butterfly garden to protect them from the wind.
- Butterflies prefer plant groupings to singular plants.
And… enjoy! Watching life in the garden is a source of constant joy.
