Welcome butterflies
Help these colourful pollinators feel at home
Colourful butterflies are nature’s prettiest pollinators, but many species are in decline as a result of meadows disappearing from the British countryside. This means that they rely on gardeners to ensure their survival and here’s how you can help:
Butterflies are sensitive creatures and can only fly in sunny, sheltered spots, so protect your garden with shrubs or hedges to filter buffeting winds.
Plant a range of nectar-rich single flowers in the warmest, sunniest part of your garden. Try to include ones that flower in late spring right through to autumn. Alliums, honesty, echinacea, knautia, verbena, lavender, sedum and asters are all good choices.
Woodpiles and ivy are more likely to attract overwintering butterflies than prefabricated butterfly houses. Many butterfly species feed on grasses and wildflowers, so establish a patch of meadow or longer grass.
Remember to include plants for caterpillars, including holly, ivy, nasturtium and dog violets. Place dark rocks in sunny spots, which will absorb the sun and help warm up basking butterflies.
Garden without pesticides, which can kill both caterpillars and butterflies.
Provide a nutrient-rich dish of fermenting fruit pieces, such as sliced banana and pineapple, or create a butterfly puddle from a little sand, composted manure and water for a nutritious snack.