Butterflies add so much to your yard and landscape while bringing it to life. Here are some tips for creating a more butterfly-friendly area in your yard.
Most butterflies and moths are dependent on one or more types of host plants, a plant on which they lay their eggs and caterpillars feed on. There are different host plants for each kind of butterfly. One of the most well-known host plants is milkweed, the plant needed for Monarchs to survive. Other more well-known host plants are dill, parsley and fennel for Black Swallowtails.
See other host plants on the chart below, specific to the butterflies of Iowa.
Sources for Nectar and Pollen
During their adult phase of life, butterflies and moths need various types of nectar producing plants. Typically native plants will attract more pollinators than non-native plants. See native plants marked with an (N) below. Many of the plants listed below grow best in full sun.
Butterflies will drink muddy water, water from ponds, shallow pools and other resources. Create a butterfly water source for your yard. I really liked this video from P. Allen Smith.
Rocks, retaining walls and mulched flower beds provide a nice spot to bask in the sun. I just watched a Black Swallowtail butterfly land on our retaining wall for periods of rest on Sunday.
Trees, fences, dead wood and leafy foliage can provide shelter to butterflies.
Have you created a butterfly-friendly habitat in your yard or garden? Comment with your favorite host or nectar plants, or other experiences below.