The best flowers to
M
ost people might consider the world of gardening as just growing plants. But for those of us who are passionate about plants, the hobby goes way beyond that. Gardens can provide interest, beauty, food, therapy and achievement. They are also a habitat for life with active visitors, such as insects and birds. Sometimes a bonus feature of the flower garden is dedicated to the presentation of colorful butterflies. Of all the specialty gardens, such as shade and vegetable gardening, butterfly gardening tops the list when it comes to wonder and excitement. There is nothing better than having a beautiful flower garden unless it is a beautiful flower garden that attracts those fascinating flying creatures. These unique insects easily spark interest and admiration from adults and children. Since we have so many native butterflies in Alabama, encounters are highly likely, so one might as well have them wander about the home garden or landscape and encourage them to visit often. Butterfly gardens may sound complex, but designing and having one is really quite simple. Creating a butterfly garden involves designing the garden to attract, retain and encourage butterfly populations. To start, designate a sunny area and plant flowers that both the gardener and the butterflies enjoy. The emphasis should be on choosing and arranging the flowers and plants correctly. To do this, one must become educated on the types of plants or flowers that butterflies prefer. There are two
16 Lake Martin Living
butterfly plant groups: Nectar plants for adults and host food plants for caterpillars. Adult butterflies primarily seek sugary nectar but also obtain other nutrients from decaying plant and animal matter. They are attracted to colorful flowers for that nectar source. Nectar, a sweet, high-energy liquid, is quickly and
