Butterfly Habitats
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Butterflies and Pollination
Butterflies are known as pollinators, animals that carry pollen from one flower to another. Pollen is essential to flowers of the same species, so they fertilize each other to produce more seeds and fruit to further plant production. Butterflies help in this process by feeding on the nectar of flowers. Building a butterfly garden in your backyard is a great way to help in the pollination process and create an ecosystem for pollinators, something they are desperately losing across the world. Butterfly habitats will do more than just attract butterflies; they also:
Provide an ecosystem for other native animals and pollinators.
Essential Aspects of a
Butterfly Habitat
There are a few essential aspects your butterfly habitat must have in order to attract and retain butterflies. We incorporate each of these aspects into every butterfly habitat we build.
The ideal butterfly habitats showcase native plants, plant diversity, shelter, plenty of sunlight, and a few water sources.
Native Plants
To attract butterflies residing in South Florida, you must have plants that are native to South Florida. Butterflies are attracted to these plants and are accustomed to their food source. When selecting native plants, we incorporate nectar and caterpillar food plants. The nectar provides food for the butterflies, while the caterpillar food plants allow the butterflies to lay their eggs. Butterflies will only lay their eggs on certain plants, so it’s vital to have these integrated into the habitat.
Plant Diversity
Selecting plants with a range of diversity in terms of how they look and grow is important for attracting different species of butterflies. Not all butterflies feed and lay their eggs on the same plants. Our team can develop a butterfly garden around a single species, but we always encourage developing habitats for all wildlife. Plus, a diverse garden featuring various food sources is a great way to revamp your home’s backyard and beauty.
Shelter
Shrubs and trees are types of plants that provide shelter for butterflies. When placed in the right areas, your trees and shrubs will protect against winds that may carry butterflies away. It also gives butterflies a safe spot to roost from predators that may be lurking. Additionally, many species of trees and shrubs are excellent food sources for butterflies. Depending on the area we have to work with, our team will determine what species are best suited for your butterfly habitat.
Sunlight
Butterflies require the sun to keep warm as they cannot maintain their own body temperature. To start their day, they’ll bask in the sun before feeding or fluttering about. While trees and shrubs offer shade, you should have an area where butterflies can absorb necessary sunlight. Almost any surface that receives at least six hours of sunlight a day is a great place to start. Our team integrates this must-have quality into your butterfly garden based on what your space might already have.
Butterflies don’t need a lot of water, but it’s still required. They primarily get their water from nectar, but it’s great to have another water source nearby. These can take the shape of something as simple as a birdbath or puddling station. However, if you’re interested in making it more elegant, consider a fountain, waterless pond, or sprinklers. Our South Florida landscapers work with you to determine the best water feature for your butterfly garden and budget.