Butterfly gardens are becoming popular across the country, loved for the beauty of both the flowers and the colorful winged creatures they attract. Your first step should be to research which butterflies are in your area, as there are specific flowers that will be particularly irresistible to different varieties of butterfly. That being said, virtually any bright, nectar filled flower will beckon butterflies, so don’t be afraid to experiment! The floral experts at Mission Viejo Florist are more than happy to help you to design a gorgeous backyard oasis that will bring you – and the butterflies – a lot of happiness. Cultivating a butterfly garden does not have to be an extravagant process. In fact, you can simply add potted plants and window boxes of flowers rather than planting a full garden – but you’ll want the area to be sunny, and protected from wind so that the butterflies will have a safe haven to feed. (Butterflies need the sun to stay warm, but they won’t congregate in an area where they are fighting the wind to stay on the plants).
Some flowers that will attract butterflies include asters, sunflowers, daisies, zinnias, goldenrod and marigolds. Some other plants that are not as much of a household name include butterfly bushes, milkweed, and Joe Pye Weed. Thistle, clover, and dogbane will also help you to lay out the red carpet for your fluttering friends. Remember, native butterflies will enjoy native plants, so a little research will go a long way to finding out just how to make them feel at home.

How to Accessorize: Add flat stones for the butterflies to rest on, and maintain a sunny, damp mud puddle or a containers of sandy water. (Butterflies derive needed nutrients from drinking water which contains minerals in sand and dirt.)

This summer, you can create an outdoor oasis that is not only beautiful, but that serves a beautiful purpose. Mission Viejo Florist can help.