Butterflies are a beautiful addition to our gardens, and one we typically associate with being ‘quintessentially British’. But what was once a common sight is becoming less so as they face extreme habitat loss, pollution and weather changes.
So why do we want to encourage them to come back?
Besides looking pretty, butterflies play an important role within the ecosystem.
They are a food source for many other creatures such as bats, birds, amphibians and reptiles
Caterpillars are an excellent form of natural pest control, particularly against aphids
Butterflies are environmental indicators and are a good sign that an ecosystem is currently healthy. Their absence is equally an indication to ecologists that the health of the ecosystem is suffering
Here are some quick tips on how to support the butterfly population by making your green spaces more welcoming for visiting butterflies.
Grow a variety of nectar-rich flowers, such as lavender, bluebells, marigold, blackberries, milkweed and marjoram
Keep them watered, as nectar supplies reduce if there is not enough accessible water
Make sure some of these plants are in the sunny spots in your garden so they can enjoy some warmth. When it rains, butterflies need somewhere to shelter in trees and shurbs
Autumn can be a harder time for the butterfly population. Growing ivy can give them a nectar supply during this time, as well as the sugars from fallen fruit such as pears, apples and berries
Caterpillars are an essential part of the life cycle of a butterfly. They happily feed on nettles, thistles, holly and ivy, so if your weeding is too thorough, they may miss out on vital food sources
Make a puddling pool, a shallower alternative to ponds or bird baths where they can safely gather in the sun to collect salts and minerals from the mud
Finally, avoid pesticides that may harm pollinating insects
