Large butterflies, like swallowtails and monarchs prefer to feed on tall flowers that are borne on strong stems that can support their weight. Small butterflies, like skippers and Elfins are unable to draw nectar from a large flower and prefer the tiny blossoms on ground-hugging plants like thyme or sweet alyssum. You can attract all sizes of butterflies by cultivating a diversity of flowering plants that contain high amounts of nectar. Some of the best plants are those that contain clusters of blossoms like wild asters or Queen Anne's lace. For best success, plant your nectar flowers in full sun.
Butterflies prefer open, sunny areas protected from the wind for feeding and resting.
They also appreciate stones or statuary which can serve as a warming spot on a chilly morning. Avoid applying insecticides on your butterfly plants and watch carefully for tiny eggs or caterpillars that may be developing on trees, shrubs, or wildflowers nearby. These will become the future butterflies of the summer season and should be left alone. You can raise butterflies indoors if you have a conservatory, a spare room, or even an extra tabletop. All it takes is a bright warm room, a mesh enclosure, a source of nectar and of course, some butterflies.