Butterfly gardening is a way to design a garden that attracts butterflies and other pollinators, such as skippers and moths. It is a popular and sophisticated activity that has been growing in popularity over the last 15 years.

An ideal butterfly garden contains habitat for each of the four distinct life stages of butterflies: egg, larva, chrysalis, and adult. Butterfly larvae consume plant matter and can be generalists or specialists. For example, the painted lady (Vanessa cardui) consumes over 200 plants as caterpillars, while the monarch (Danaus plexippus) and the regal fritillary (Speyeria idalia) only consume plants in one genus, milkweed and violets, respectively.

To attract butterflies, a garden should include full sun, lack of pesticides, plenty of nectar sources, and larval host plants for eggs and larvae food. Traditional flowers in butterfly gardens include brightly coloured plants with shallow blossoms that allow easy nectar access. Popular butterfly perennials include flowering shrubs that thrive in full sun, such as spicebush (Lindera benzoin), pawpaw (Asimina triloba), sassafras (Sassafras albidum), and black cherry (Prunus serotina).

It is important to note that non-native plants can have a negative effect on butterflies and other pollinators. Lepidoptera societies and the PLANTS Database of the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA’s) Natural Resources Conservation Service provide state and county-level distribution maps of specific plants to help select the desired plant species for the garden.

A butterfly garden can also be a meditation garden, providing a peaceful and calming environment for reflection and relaxation. To create a meditation garden, you can incorporate various elements that promote a sense of serenity and mindfulness. Here are some ideas for meditation garden items:

Rocks and rock sculptures: These can add a sense of solidity and steadiness to your garden, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Small plinths or altars: These can be used to display candles, flowers, or spiritual offerings. They provide a focal point for meditation and reflection. Statues: Choose statues that inspire a sense of peace and calmness. Buddha statues, Zen sculptures, or nature-inspired statues can enhance the meditative vibe. Solar-powered garden lights: These can illuminate your garden at night, creating a soothing ambiance. Solar-powered lights with tea lights or flickering LEDs add a soft glow. Wind chimes: The gentle sound of wind chimes can create a relaxing atmosphere. Choose wind chimes with soothing tones and materials like bamboo or metal. Meditation cushions or pillows: Comfortable seating options specifically designed for meditation can enhance your practice. Look for cushions with traditional fillings or those made from natural materials. Zen garden accessories: Miniature Zen gardens, sand gardens, or rock gardens can be incorporated into your meditation space. These small-scale gardens provide a tactile and visual focus for meditation. Water features: The sound of running water can be incredibly calming. Consider adding a small fountain, a birdbath, or a water basin to your meditation garden. Natural materials: Incorporate natural elements like pebbles, wood, slate, or gravel to create pathways, borders, or decorative features. These materials add texture and a connection to nature. Seating areas: Create comfortable seating arrangements where you can sit and enjoy the beauty of your garden. Benches, chairs, or even a simple meditation cushion surrounded by lush greenery can provide a peaceful spot for reflection.

When selecting plants for your meditation garden, consider your personal preferences and the five senses. Choose plants with lovely textures, such as velvety lamb’s ears, if you enjoy touching things. If you prefer visual stimulation, opt for brightly coloured flowers. For those who love fragrances, select a range of scented plants that bloom at different times of the year to ensure a beautiful fragrance throughout the seasons.

Here is a list of flowers and plants that are known to attract butterflies:

Agastache Antirrhinum hispanicum Antirrhinum (Snapdragon) Vernonia altissima 'Jonesboro Giant' Joe-Pye weed Ironweed Coneflowers Goldenrod Brightly-hued asters Milkweed Dill Parsley Bronze fennel Anise Hyssop Agapanthus Allium Amsonia Chrysanthemum Coreopsis Pink Dianthus Erigeron Daisies Daylilies-Hemerocallis Lobelia Mallow Penstemon

Remember, the key to a successful meditation garden is to create a space that inspires calmness and serenity. Choose elements that resonate with you and reflect your personal style and preferences.