Montessori Butterfly Sanctuary
How to Support Butterflies
Butterflies are an extremely important to our environment and therefore, our lives. Not only are they delightful visitors to our gardens, but they are also major pollinators. Without butterflies, we would not have all the beautiful variety of plants and flowers that we do. So let's help these friendly critters! Here are four ways that you can help butterflies:
1. Plant Native
Flowering, native plants are very important for butterfly support. Invasive species harm the environment and can overtake areas, killing off the native plants we want. Native plants provides butterflies with the food they need and are accustomed to. For plant suggestions, select the tab above labeled "Create Your Own Butterfly Sanctuary."
2. Don't Use Insecticides
Insecticides, pesticides, and herbicides are VERY harmful to butterflies! The chemicals are very poisonous and will kill them! Try using non-toxic weed and pest control when in your garden. These products will still work and be safe for butterflies.
3. Plant Continuous
Bloom
Continuous blooming plants will provide butterflies with nectar and food throughout the season. Plan your garden so that after some flowers stop blooming, a second or third plant will start to bloom new flowers. This way you will have continuous blooming flowers throughout the season. Also try to incorporate colors such as red, orange, yellow, pink or purple; butterflies are attracted to these colors!
4. Create Your Own Butterfly House
Build a home for these beautiful pollinators! Butterfly houses provide a safe space for butterflies in poor weather conditions when it is cold or wet. For instructions on how to build your own butterfly house, scroll to the tab above and select "Build Your Own Butterfly House."
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