Student Article

Creating a butterfly-friendly garden is an excellent way to support local wildlife. Butterflies, in particular, rely on specific plants for food and shelter during their life stages. For those looking to attract butterflies, planting caterpillar food plants is essential. These plants provide vital nutrition for caterpillars, which are the early life stages of butterflies.

Nettles: a caterpillar favorite

One of the most important plants to grow is nettles. Nettles are the primary food for caterpillars of species like the peacock, red admiral, small tortoiseshell, and painted lady butterflies. They thrive in sunny, moist environments and are easy to grow. Simply sow nettle seeds in a rich, well-watered patch, and they will attract butterflies as they mature. You may even spot caterpillars on them in the late autumn or early winter, as some butterflies overwinter in their caterpillar stage.

Pretty flowers with a purpose

Another crucial plant is cuckoo flower, which serves as the food plant for the orange-tip butterfly. This plant thrives in damp, boggy soil, often near ponds. The orange-tip butterfly, easily identified by its bright orange wing tips, lays its eggs on cuckoo flowers, providing an early spring meal for the caterpillars. To ensure these butterflies have enough food, avoid cutting back plants in autumn, as orange-tip chrysalides often overwinter on old plant stems. In addition to these plants, you can plant hops, holly, and ivy to attract other butterfly species, like the comma and holly blue. Many of these plants also provide nectar for adult butterflies, making them double-duty food sources.

Let the grass grow

Grasses like fescue and couch grass are also important for some butterfly species that feed on grasses. Allowing certain areas of your garden to grow tall and uncut in late summer or early autumn will provide shelter for overwintering butterflies and caterpillars.

Small spaces, big help!

If you have limited space, consider growing these plants on a balcony, windowsill, or small patio. Even small spaces can serve as stepping stones for butterflies in search of a mate or breeding site. By planting the right caterpillar food plants, you can make a big difference in the survival of these beautiful insects.

© Kate Bradbury / Our Media