BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION IN THE UK

BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION IN THE UK

The UK is braced for a once in a decade influx of the painted lady butterflies, with the potential for millions of them arriving here in the UK from Southern Europe.

The butterfly is a common immigrant that migrates in varying numbers from the continent to the UK each summer, where its caterpillars feed on thistles.

The last mass immigration of the painted ladies was in 2009 when approx 11 million descended across the UK.

How We Can Help Butterflies Thrive

Gardens  can act as important stepping stones between nature reserves and other natural habitat by offering abundant supplies of nectar. Butterflies will visit any garden, if they can feed from suitable nectar plants. A well thought out garden can attract up to 18 species of butterfly

Tips on how to attract butterflies:

1. Butterflies like warmth so choose sunny, sheltered spots when planting nectar plants.

2. Choose different plants to attract a wider variety of species.

3. Prolong flowering by deadheading flowers, mulching with organic compost and watering plants well to keep them healthy. Plants that are well watered produce more nectar for hungry butterflies.

4. Don't use insecticides and pesticides, as they kill butterflies, as well as ladybirds, ground beetles and spiders which are all pollinating insects.

The Best Plants for Summer Nectar

Buddleia

Verbena Bonariensis

Lavender

Perennial Wallflower

Marjoram

So why not do your bit to help the butterflies and plant some of the above. If you have a holiday home on our Park why not fill a planter with some lovely lavender! 

Claire

Reception