Green by the Numbers: Grow a butterfly garden of wildflowers and herbs
Did you know?- There are an estimated 750 butterfly species in the US and 17,500 butterfly species worldwide.
- According to scientists, the number of butterfly species is slowly decreasing. Butterfly populations are at risk due to lose of habitat, pesticides, pollution and climate change.
Not only do butterflies provide us the valuable service of pollinating plants and crops, these mystical flying flowers transform our garden, field and mood with a charming whimsy of delicate ethereal beauty. We can help butterflies survive by providing a backyard habitat or garden sanctuary in developed areas once open and wild.
Butterflies are attracted to nectar producing wild flowers with flat surfaces on which to lightly land. Following is a partial list of native wildflowers and herb plants inviting to butterflies and caterpillars:
- Aster
- Bee Balm
- Borage
- Butterfly Bush
- Calendula
- Coneflower
- Daisies
- Dill
- Fennel
- Fuchsia
- Lavender
- Lilies
- Lobelia
- Milkweed
- Mints
- Morning Glory
- Oregano
- Pansies
- Parsley
- Passionflower
- Pot Marigolds
- Snapdragon
- Sunflower
- Sweet Alyssum
- Sweet Pea
- Violets
Check with a local nursery for information on native plants in your area, and choose flowers and herb plants according. Be sure to ask about pesticides and if flowers are hybrids. Pesticides are harmful to caterpillars and butterflies, and hybrids produce little, if any, nectar. Plant a variety of flowers and plants. Group flowers and herb plants closely together in a sunny location of garden and yard.
Comments [0]
Tips for a Green Thanksgiving
10 Tips for Making Your Home More Energy Efficient
Green Gift Ideas: Beauty Gift Sets
