Attracting Butterflies to the Garden

  • Choose a sunny site that is sheltered from the wind.
    Make it a place that allows you to easily observe visiting butterflies so you can enjoy the show!
  • Provide a continual supply of nectar.
    Plan for flowers that bloom all season long. See our list of plants to attract butterflies to your garden.
  • Provide larval food.
    Larval plants are specific to butterfly species. They like to lay their eggs on these plants so the hatching caterpillars will have food to eat (see list of larval plants for particular species).
  • Provide a source of water.
    Butterflies need water to live.
  • Place a basking rock in a protected place in the garden.
    Butterflies like to bask in the sun on flat, light-colored rocks.
  • Avoid using insecticides.
    Use non-toxic methods to get rid of pests. Insecticides will kill butterflies as well as unwanted insects.
  • Provide protection against predators.
    Place birdbaths and feeders a distance from the butterfly garden.