You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to understand the basics of butterfly gardening.  However, it would help if you planted nectar plants to attract them and consider host plants for their eggs and larvae. Host plants will feed the babies till they are old enough to begin their metamorphosis. This is where they build their safe capsule around them, known as a chrysalis, and begin the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly. If you find one of these in your butterfly garden you can document the process with pictures. But, please don’t remove it from the garden. though it will still complete its cycle, it will have nothing to feed on. and may die quickly. 

Below you will find your quick guide. feel free to print these for your kids or just for yourself. Enjoy your butterfly garden!

— D. Ellen Kincer