Creating a butterfly-friendly garden starts with planting nectar-rich flowers like bluebells, marigolds, and lavender. Ensure plants are well-watered to maintain a steady nectar supply throughout the year.
Position plants in sunny spots and leave open areas for butterflies to fly. Ivy can provide late-season nectar in autumn, supporting butterflies through colder months.
Research native butterfly species and their preferred habitats. Plant species like milk parsley for swallowtails in Norfolk, tailoring your garden to local butterfly needs.
Even small spaces can host butterfly-attracting plants like marigolds and lavender in window boxes. Place them in sunny windows for optimal growth.
Leave out ripe fruit like pears and apples for butterflies, especially in late summer when sugar-rich foods sustain them.
Allow parts of your garden to grow wild to support butterfly larvae. Nettles, thistles, and grasses provide essential food sources for caterpillars.
Minimize pesticide use near flowering plants to protect butterflies and other pollinators. Opt for organic plants or grow your own to ensure a pesticide-free environment.
Provide shelter for butterflies with trees, shrubs, and hedgerows where they can seek refuge during inclement weather.