A flutter delight

NATURE has been one of our greatest gifts in recent months.

And there is something so soothing about watching butterflies flitting from plant to plant on a summer’s day.

Butterflies will grace any size of balcony or patio as long as there is a safe spot for them to rest and eat.

You can tempt them to drop in and linger for longer by creating a butterfly pitstop.

A window box, hanging basket or patio pot planted with bright blooms will be just as popular with butterflies as a full bed.

Start by choosing some nectar-rich, sweetsmelling flowers.

Among my favourites are verbena rigida, lavender, dianthus, French marigold, Michaelmas daisy and salvia.

Consider plants that flower at different times to attract butterflies for longer.

As well as warm spots, butterflies appreciate a bit of shade, too. Once planted up, position your pitstop in a sunny, sheltered area so they can rest.

Searching for food is thirsty work, so put water in a saucer filled with small stones that will act as perches while they stop and sip.

But make sure you steer clear of using any damaging chemicals on your plot, because pesticides can be lethal for butterflies.

I recommend using natural fertilisers as they are kinder to insects.

Now that you have a pollinator playground, make sure you take the time to appreciate your visitors – note the different species and their favourite resting spots.

For more tips on getting your garden buzzing and humming with wildlife, visit diy.com.