First, place your garden -- or at least a section of it -- in a bright, sunny area. Butterflies love sun, and many of the flowers that produce the nectar they seek are sun-loving as well. Keep in mind that although butterflies are attracted to most bright blooms, purple, pink and white tend to be their preferred colors. In general, look for plants with flowers large enough to provide an easy "landing pad" for feeding. Among their favorite varieties are the following:
- Black-eyed Susans
- Daylilies
- Hibiscus
- Daisies
- Petunias
- Zinnias
If possible, choose a location near water. After feeding on all that nectar, the butterflies will be thirsty! (If you don't have space for a birdbath or other water feature, a few small puddles will work in a pinch.)
Since butterflies will be seeking nectar from early spring until late fall, it's a good idea to plan your garden with flowers that blooms at varying intervals to ensure a constant source of food.
And last but not least, provide some type of night cover for your lovely winged guests -- a vine on a fence, a row of shrubs or even a shady tree will serve the purpose.
Then just sit back with a glass of cold lemonade and wait for the butterflies to arrive -- you're likely to have more than a few!
