Harmful insects quickly become immune. Predatory insects and birds will control pests, given time. They may sometimes snack on your butterflies and caterpillars, but you can protect caterpillars by hand-raising them in a cage or enclosed area. An area receiving at least 5 to 6 hours of sun daily is preferable. Butterflies seldom feed in shade.
Most plants favored by butterflies prefer sun to partial shade.
Butterflies need shelter from strong winds. Plant nectar flowers for adult butterflies Choose perennials and annuals so that some butterfly favorite will be blooming from early spring through late fall. Plant large areas of one plant species or one color. Native plants are usually preferred. Flat-topped blossoms or clusters of short, tubular flowers are favorites.