Luck of the Monarch
Monarchs and other pollinators, such as bees, are quickly losing their natural habitat. This can be detrimental to ecosystems that rely on these insects to start the fertilization process for many plants along with feeding birds and mammals. Scientists view butterflies as an indicator for a healthy environment as well.
Whether big or small, your outdoor spaces can be a delight for you and the butterflies. Bring out the “welcome mat” by growing flowers that attract these beauties with their nectars. Examples include daylilies, lavender, and snapdragons.
For schools and non-profits, I suggest contacting MonarchWatch.org, as they offer a free flat of 32 milkweed plugs! Milkweed is a favorite among the butterflies. MonarchWatch.org also provides information on how to enhance or create habitats for these important creatures.
And don’t forget the added bonus of butterflies: If one lands on you, it brings you luck! The more you have in your garden, the better your chances of having one bless you.
Recent Articles
-
Spiders, Bats, and Bees... OH MY!
Let’s talk environment for a minute, particularly the benefits of bats, bees and spiders to our ecosystem. -
Caution … It’s Tick Season!
It is that time of year again, Summer is here and that means tick season too. Ticks can carry dangerous diseases that can severely harm you, your family and your beloved pets. Knowing how to properly remove ticks and being aware of the signs and symptoms of infection can help prevent life threatening illnesses. -
Repel Pests with the Help of Essential Oils
Essential oils are a natural ingredient that can easily be used to repel pests, such as mice and insects. While we find their scents pleasant, the pests do not! -
Luck of the Monarch
Whether big or small, your outdoor spaces can be a delight for you and the butterflies. Bring out the “welcome mat” by growing flowers that attract these beauties with their nectars. -
Dirt Works
Dirt? Well, it's called diatomaceous earth, and it works. Diatomaceous earth (or DE) is a siliceous, sedimentary rock that occurs naturally. To be more specific, it is mainly the fossilized remains of diatoms or hard-shelled algae. Now, what could this possibly be good for? Well, a lot of things, including using for health benefits, filtering agents, and pest control. And that's where I was going with DE. It's safely and easily used as an insect pest control. Always choose food-grade, though! How does it work? DE cuts up the bugs' bodies, sapping the moisture from the waxy exoskeletons of...
