How to Attract Butterflies to Your Garden

Attracting butterflies to your British garden is a wonderful way to add life and color to your outdoor space while supporting local wildlife. With over 50 species of butterflies in the UK, creating a butterfly-friendly garden is both rewarding and beneficial to the environment. Here’s how to do it.

Plant Flowers

To attract butterflies, focus on planting flowers that they naturally seek out. Consider species like buddleia (often called the “butterfly bush”), common knapweed, and red valerian. These plants provide abundant nectar, which butterflies need to thrive. Plant a variety that blooms from spring through to autumn to ensure a continuous food supply.

Cater to Specific Butterfly Species

Different butterfly species have specific preferences when it comes to nectar and host plants. For instance, the Painted Lady and Red Admiral are particularly attracted to thistles and nettles, while the Common Blue prefers bird’s-foot-trefoil. Research which butterflies are common in your area and plant accordingly to draw them in.

Create a Nectar-Rich Border

Butterflies are drawn to brightly colored flowers, especially those in shades of purple, pink, and red. Design a sunny border in your garden with plants like lavender, marjoram, and heather. Group these flowers together, as butterflies prefer to feed in areas where they can easily flit between blooms.

Provide Water and Shelter

Butterflies need water, but they drink from shallow, damp areas. Create a “puddling” station with a shallow dish filled with sand and water. Additionally, plant shrubs and tall grasses to offer shelter from wind and predators.

Go Pesticide-Free

Avoid using chemical pesticides, as they can be harmful to butterflies and other beneficial insects. Instead, opt for organic gardening methods to keep your garden safe for all wildlife.

By following these tips, you can transform your garden into a haven for butterflies, bringing beauty and ecological benefits to your outdoor space.