Attracting Butterflies and other Pollinators
Butterflies can visit a wide range of plants, both native and non-native for nectar. But their caterpillars have a much more limited diet. In fact, most caterpillars can only eat the leaves of one or a few plant species. This is because plants are well protected against herbivores by chemical defenses. To get around these deadly chemicals, caterpillars have specialized to be resistant to the chemicals found in their host plants. While a garden full of nectar is great for the butterfly passing by, without providing the host plants needed by the caterpillars will not support population growth. Many other insects have similarly adapted to feeding on a limited range of plant species as well. For example, some bees only collect pollen from one type of flower. Getting familiar with some of the plants that support these specialists can help you provide crucial habitat that will also support generalist species.
It is important to keep in mind that in a wildlife or pollinator garden, insects feeding on your plants is a good thing! That's why the plants are there, to serve as food for the critters you're trying to support. |