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Catching August & September's Butterflies
We received a beautiful photo from our new member, Marilyn B. of a monarch butterfly visiting the herb garden at the John Inskeep House! The butterfly is enjoying a Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia).
This lovely moment is thanks to our dedicated GCM members who work year-round to expand and cultivate this wonderful herb garden. What a treat for GCM members and visitors alike!
Gardening Tips from GCM Members
Attract Black Swallowtail Butterflies with These Nectar-Rich Flowers!
Attract Black Swallowtail Butterflies with These Nectar-Rich Flowers!
Attract Black Swallowtail Butterflies with These Nectar-Rich Flowers!
To attract black swallowtails, plant flowers with easy-to-access nectar, such as those that are flat-topped or grow in clusters. Some great choices include Phlox, Zinnias, and Milkweed.
Fun Facts:
- Mimicry: Black swallowtails look like the poisonous pipevine swallowtail to fool predators.
- Camouflage: Young caterpillars resemble bird droppin
To attract black swallowtails, plant flowers with easy-to-access nectar, such as those that are flat-topped or grow in clusters. Some great choices include Phlox, Zinnias, and Milkweed.
Fun Facts:
- Mimicry: Black swallowtails look like the poisonous pipevine swallowtail to fool predators.
- Camouflage: Young caterpillars resemble bird droppings to avoid being eaten.
- Defense: When threatened, the caterpillars can reveal an orange, foul-smelling gland called the osmeterium to deter predators.
Welcome Swallowtail Caterpillars to Your Garden!
Attract Black Swallowtail Butterflies with These Nectar-Rich Flowers!
Attract Black Swallowtail Butterflies with These Nectar-Rich Flowers!
Those caterpillars on your parsley are swallowtail caterpillars, not pests! Instead of fearing them, share their feast—they're just transforming into beautiful butterflies.
To support them, consider creating a dedicated "caterpillar garden" in a sunny spot. Loosen the soil (a raised bed works well) and plant some of their favorite host pl
Those caterpillars on your parsley are swallowtail caterpillars, not pests! Instead of fearing them, share their feast—they're just transforming into beautiful butterflies.
To support them, consider creating a dedicated "caterpillar garden" in a sunny spot. Loosen the soil (a raised bed works well) and plant some of their favorite host plants:
- Carrots: Sow seeds ½ inch apart in rows a few weeks before the last frost.
- Dill: Sow seeds 1-2 inches apart around the last spring frost date.
- Parsley: A slow starter; plant transplants or sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost for a head start.
- Fennel: Plant just like carrots, and enjoy its feathery leaves.