Let’s Grow: Pollinator Gardens for Monarch Butterflies

Monarch butterflies are a beautiful and important part of our natural world in Central Texas. They are also in decline, due to habitat loss and other factors. One way to help monarch butterflies is to plant a pollinator garden.

A pollinator garden is a garden that is designed to attract and support pollinators, such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Pollinators are essential for the health of our planet, as they help to pollinate plants, which is essential for food production. Below is a great pollinator plant chart (PDF – printer version) that you can print and take with you to your local garden nursery to pick out your selections.

When planting a pollinator garden, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to choose plants that will attract pollinators. Some good choices for monarch butterflies include:

• Milkweed: Milkweed is the only plant that monarch butterflies will lay their eggs on. There are many different types of milkweed, so you can choose one that will fit your garden’s needs.
• Coneflowers: Coneflowers are a popular choice for pollinator gardens because they are both attractive and provide food for a variety of pollinators.
• Zinnias: Zinnias are another popular choice for pollinator gardens. They come in a variety of colors and are easy to grow.
• Lantana: Lantana is a colorful shrub that is native to the Americas. It is a good choice for pollinator gardens because it provides nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinators.
• Salvia: Salvia is a genus of plants that includes many different species, some of which are native to the Americas. Salvias are attractive to pollinators and come in a variety of colors.

In addition to choosing the right plants, there are a few other things to keep in mind when planting a pollinator garden. First, you need to plant a variety of plants. This will provide a variety of food sources for pollinators. Second, you need to plant your garden in a sunny spot. Pollinators need sunlight to help them pollinate plants. Third, you need to water your garden regularly. Pollinators need water to survive.

If you live in the Lakeway, TX area, there are a few places where you can buy plants for your pollinator garden. Some good choices include:

• The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a great place to buy plants for your pollinator garden. They have a wide variety of plants to choose from, and their staff can help you choose the right plants for your garden.
• The Wildseed Farms: Wildseed Farms is another great place to buy plants for your pollinator garden. They have a wide variety of native plants to choose from, and they offer free shipping on orders over $50.
• The Austin Nature and Science Center: The Austin Nature and Science Center has a plant nursery where you can buy plants for your pollinator garden. They also offer gardening classes and workshops that can help you learn more about pollinator gardens.

Planting a pollinator garden is a great way to help monarch butterflies and other pollinators. It is also a beautiful way to add some color and life to your yard. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your pollinator garden today!