San Diego Butterfly Garden

There are many types of gardens, and each contributes something different to family enjoyment. A popular design that many families particularly enjoy is a butterfly garden. By including specific plants in their garden that will attract butterflies, homeowners can easily create a beautiful outdoor living space. Butterfly gardens also tend to be easy to care for and are visually attractive.

The professionals at Juniper Landscape Company in San Diego are ready to help you develop whatever type of garden you and your family want. Call us today for information on how to choose the right plants, plan bedding and irrigation and keep your garden healthy.

Plants That Attract Butterflies

The type of plants you include in your butterfly garden are very important. To have a true butterfly garden, you should include both host plants and nectar plants. Host plants are plants on which butterflies lay their eggs. These plants provide a home to butterfly larvae. Milkweed, for example, is an excellent host plant for attracting the Monarch caterpillar. Parsley, a popular herb, is excellent for attracting the Black Swallowtail caterpillar. To make the best choice of which host plant to use, check what caterpillars in your particular area eat.

Nectar plants are also important to include because they attract adult butterflies. Nectar plants provide food for these adults, who then mate and lay eggs on the host plants included in the garden. Zinnias are a good example of a nectar plant. Available in a wide variety of colors, zinnias attract a wide range of butterflies. Heliotrope also attracts a wide range of butterflies. It grows best in the ground but can be contain in a pot for smaller garden spaces, such as balconies or patios.

Planning Your Butterfly Garden

Once you have selected the plants you would like to include, draw a plan of the garden on paper. It is important to plan for the full growth size of the plants you intend to include. You should also consider the needs of the plants, including light requirements and moisture control.

You may also want to consider how you will use the space as a whole. If you wish to sit and watch the wildlife your butterfly garden attracts, it is important to include a space for seating. You should also include in the plan any ideas for cooking, playing or any other activity for which you may wish to use the space.

Next, take your ideas to a professional landscaper, like those at Juniper Landscape Company in San Diego. Discussing the process with a professional will not only answer any questions you may have about the type of plants to include for your particular climate and location, but also offer detailed and professional planning. JCMS offers years of experience aiding homeowners with their landscaping needs, from maintenance to complete landscaping renovation. Using their experience and knowledge, your ideas can become a reality.