Sos Roofline Systems

Did you know that North America hosts more than 200 species of butterflies? They range in size, color and pattern and provide an interesting show to those who enjoy taking in natural marvels. Drawing butterflies into your landscape is easy once you know the basic needs of their life cycle. If you provide a place for egg-laying, food for caterpillars (larvae), a setting for chrysalis formation and nectar for adult butterflies you will be rewarded every year with new butterflies. Here’s what you need:

1. Feeding larvae. The butterfly larvae (caterpillar) is drawn to various plants depending on the specials you are trying to attract. Black Swallowtails like plants such as carrots, parsley and dill, while Viceroy Caterpillars eat leaves from the willow and poplar tree. Monarchs eat milkweed plants. Still others thrive on weeds such as thistle and nettle, so feel free to include a variety of plants.

2. Feeding butterflies. Once the caterpillar develops into a mature butterfly, its eating needs change dramatically. They need bright, colorful blossoms that grow in clusters for easier collection of nectar. Pink, purple, red, yellow and orange works the best to draw them in. Also keep in mind that butterflies will need to feed for an entire season so you’ll want to plant flowers that bloom one after the other in a continuous cycle.

3. Plant location. Butterflies require lots of sunlight, but don’t linger where it is too windy. Consider creating your ‘butterfly islands’ behind larger trees and shrubbery to block the wind if need be. Also make sure that you’re attracting them to areas with low traffic. A butterfly garden wouldn’t do well next to a children’s play area, for example.

4. A water source and place to bask. A shallow pan of water with coarse sand or a birdbath will offer a place for butterflies to drink. You should also know that since butterflies are most active on sunny days, they’ll need flat rocks to bask on in order to raise their body temperature to allow them to fly around in search of food.

Once you created an environment that is rich in color, plant variety and sunshine you should be rewarded with a season full of butterflies. Their life span is short, some only 10 to 20 days, but they are fascinating to watch now that you know more about them. Enjoy!