How to Build a Butterfly Garden

Butterflies are amazing insects. I doubt anyone would argue that there is a more beautiful bug than the butterfly. But how do you create an atmosphere that is conducive to the butterfly? Well, look no further than this great infographic.

What are the benefits of butterflies?

If you need some convincing on why you should create a butterfly garden, here are three tremendous benefits butterflies offer. 1. They are excellent pollinators. 2. They indicate a healthy natural and balanced community. 3. Butterfly habitats attract other wildlife and promote a healthy ecosystem. 

What is the lifecycle of a butterfly?

As you can see in this illustration butterflies begin as a caterpillar once they hatch from an egg. Eventually, the caterpillar will create a cocoon and emerge as a beautiful butterfly. Adult butterflies will then feed on the nectar of the very plants they used to eat as a caterpillar, pollinating them as they go. 

How do I create a butterfly garden?

If you don’t have much space, don't worry! Even a small container of pollinator-friendly plants can be enough to attract and feed butterflies. 

What types of plants can I plant to attract or feed butterflies?

Well, that depends on the season. 

Plants for attracting butterflies in spring:

African and French marigolds, sunflower, lantana, impatiens, sedums, and verbena.

Plants for attracting butterflies in summer:

Ageratum, anise hyssop, treasure flowers, black-eyed Susans, blanket flowers, blue mist, butterfly weed, and candlestick tree. 

Plants for attracting butterflies in fall:

Joe-Pye weed, johnny jump-ups, pansies, cosmos, ornamental cabbage, snapdragons, butterfly weed, pot marigold, and calendula. 

As you can see there are plenty of plants and reasons to make a butterfly garden. Check out the LSU Ag Center for more great butterfly information. And be sure to share this infographic with your friends and family so they can learn how to make great gardens too!

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