As children are so interested in butterflies , it s only natural to grow the plants and flowers that attract, feed, and host these wonderful creatures in your child s garden. While it s pretty to have only all the flowers, it is very important to have the host plants mixed in or nearby so that the butterflies can lay their eggs. If there are no host plants for the caterpillars to eat, and where the butterflies can lay there eggs, you won t have very many butterflies. To find if there are certain host plants that are preferred in your area, check with your county extension agent or a master gardener in your area. There are many nectar plants that will feed and attract butterflies.
Butterflies appreciate a water source as well.
A shallow pan partly filled with soil or gravel with enough water added to puddle slightly in some areas works well. Also a shallow pan with a small amount of water in the bottom and a flat rock to the side where the butterflies can walk down to the water or bask in the sun also works. Also, do not spray insecticides in your garden. Butterflies and many other helpful insects are killed right along with any undesirable ones. Don t attract them just to kill them.