Butterflies bring joy to your little piece of heaven, your own backyard. Fall is a great time to plant a butterfly garden that will be established by next summer. If you love butterflies and want them to stay, here are some things you can do:

1. Focus on planting flowering varieties that are native to your area. Why natives? These plants often require little watering or care because they are adapted to the climate. Caterpillars are often picky and will only eat very specific types of plants. Natives can provide food sources for these picky eaters. Often, natives are better nectar producers than non-natives and a better food source for butterflies and moths. You can study up on what types of butterflies are native to your area, find out what they prefer to eat and then focus on those types of plants.

2. Provide a good variety of different flowering plants for butterflies and caterpillars. Try to plant things that will bloom in every season from spring to fall, so butterflies have a consistent source of food. Choose flowers with different sizes and depths, so there will be something for different kinds and sizes of butterflies.

3. Plant sun loving flowers, as butterflies love the sunshine and are most active during the warmest parts of the day.

3. Don't get discouraged if butterflies aren't attracted to some of your plants. Observe to find out what they like and plant more of those types of flowers. A successful butterfly garden takes time and a little effort to get it right.

4. Reduce your use of chemical pesticides, as these affect butterflies too.

With a few simple steps, you can start your own butterfly garden and be hosting your own butterfly buffet by next summer! Dig it! It's Grow Time.....