Help Revive the Monarch Butterfly Population With These Gardening Tips

Monarch butterfly sightings are a joy for Canadians. Unfortunately their population is in drastic decline. This year, the presence of the migratory butterfly dropped by 22 per cent in the forests of Mexico where they spend the winter, making it increasingly important to create a welcoming garden for them this summer. Here’s how you can help:

Plant Milkweed

Milkweed is an essential component of a butterfly-friendly garden. The insects lay their eggs on milkweed, and it’s the only thing monarch caterpillars eat. These hardy perennials feature beautiful blooms and require full sun.

Embrace Nectar-Rich Plants

Fill your garden with as many nectar-rich flowering species as possible such as verbena, bee balm, black-eyed Susans and yarrow. This will help both butterflies and important pollinators like bees.

Add Rock Accents

Butterflies are cold-blooded and rely on the warmth of the sun to maintain their body temperature. Placing smooth, flat rocks in sunny areas of your garden will give them a place to rest. Plus, after a summer rainstorm damp rocks act as a place for butterflies to hydrate without the risk of drowning.

Avoid Pesticides

As much as you’d like to avoid weeds or more invasive insects, avoid using chemical-based pesticides to deal with the issue. Many pesticides are non-discriminatory, killing any insects that come into contact with the chemical. Butterflies are especially susceptible.

Want to learn more about eco-friendly home upgrades? We’ve got you covered at blog.royallepage.ca.