Swarms of butterflies can transform a backyard patch into a magic garden. But there's no mystical tip for making them flutter around your house. You see, butterflies are attracted to flowers that have a heavy perfume because they contain more carbohydrates that are needed to fuel their high-intensity mating and flower-pollinating.
A Few Butterfly Favorites:
- Milkweed
- Valerian
- Buddleia
- Red zinnias
- Orange marigolds
- Lavender
Be sure to plant these flowers in a sunny spot that's protected from high wind. And don't use a light touch -- butterflies love abundant patches of nectar.
Another tip: Plan the flowers so you that have at least a few nectar-bearing blooms throughout the summer months, that will keep the butterflies from having to seek out new feeding grounds.
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