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Endangered Butterfly Gardens

© Kate Staron

So often we hear about the plight of endangered species directly linked to their habitat. This is certainly the case in one of the most beautiful groups of endangered species, the butterflies. 19 species of butterflies are currently endangered or threatened according to the US FWS. Other butterflies are threatened or endangered in other parts of the world as well, and some populations are threatened in a particular area of the country. Almost all of it can be linked to the destruction of suitable habitat. By starting a butterfly garden you can help the butterflies in your area find food for themselves and their children.

Butterfly gardens are relatively simple to make and maintain. If you use plants that thrive in your area, especially native ones, all you'll have to do is sit back and watch the fluttering insects. There are a few guidelines to follow when setting up a garden made for our flying friends.

First, plant flowering plants butterflies like. They can see color and prefer reds, oranges, yellows and purples. Avoid whites, blues and foliage plants that do not flower. Butterflies are high energy creatures and need the nectar from flowering plants. Most plants they prefer like Zinnia, the butterfly bush, thistle and milkweed all prefer full sun. So plan to plant your garden in a place with southern exposure or at least in an area that is not shaded by other plants or houses.

Using a variety of different plants put them in close to one another. The color will attract many butterflies in search of food. Try to use plants native to your area. Check with your local nursery on the best butterfly attracting plants that grow best in your sun and soil conditions. Native, high nectar-producing plants will be more likely to bring local butterflies to your door.

Don't forget to plant for the children, or larva of moths and butterflies. Butterflies lay eggs on a host plant. The emerging larvae (caterpillars) eat that plant almost exclusively. Pick plants that butterflies in your area like, especially those suitable for the endangered species in your area. Remember the host plants may not be pretty after the caterpillars eat the leaves. Consider putting these out of view of any guests you might have.

Once you pick your flowers and host plants remember that since butterflies are insects, don't use pesticides. Those same sprays used to kill mosquitoes and harmful pests will also harm the butterflies. Avoid using any pesticides, even 'natural' remedies. You are still killing the creatures you want to look at.