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going wild for a beautiful world
In “Finn Family Moomintroll” the colour of the first butterfly in spring augers the coming summer, an acknowledgement of how that first butterfly marks the turning of the year. There is something in the attractive and ethereal nature of the butterfly that we all respond to, even criticise as self-indulgent display in the expression “social butterfly”.
This is unfair as the butterfly is as hard a worker as the busy bee,collecting nectar and spreading pollen. These insects complement each other with their different length proboscises and nectar needs, by favouring different flowers. The rewards for attracting butterflies to your garden are well worth the effort.
Treadlight suggests...
To attract butterflies, your garden should provide a nectar source and as a bonus a habitat for caterpillars to feed, although the latter although desirable is an optional extra.
Yellow Alyssum, Lavenders, Buddleias and Michaelmas Daisies are amongst the top ten plants that attract butterflies.
Because of their varying life cycles, different species of caterpillar and butterfly will inhabit different plants. For example, the caterpillars of Peacocks, Small Tortoiseshells and Red Admirals like nothing better than some young nettles in a sunny spot. As for bees, butterflies prefer native and heirloom species.
A herbaceous border sheltered by early flowering shrubs with a wild area nearby is ideal.
Spare a thought for over wintering butterflies. Leave a window open to let in Tortoiseshells so they can hibernate. A small pile of wood is a perfect place for Peacocks. Large Skippers and Orange tips over winter in meadow grass, leave some patches uncut. Encourage Brimstones by planting Purging Buckthorn, it will be there in the spring to delight you.
