Pollinators (bees, butterflies, moths, etc) are an essential part of the ecosystem- they allow native plants to survive and are important in food crop production. To help combat the decline in pollinators, we planted a butterfly garden at High Bridge Glens Park and hope to plant more around the city!

frequently asked questions

Why did you choose High Bridge Glens Park as the first site for a butterfly garden?

  • There were several factors in choosing the first location. We chose High Bridge Glens Park because of the amount of sunlight it gets, the location of the park itself, and the park needed a boost of color.

Why did you plant the flowers in September?

  • One of the best times of the year to plant perennials is actually in the fall. That allows the plants to acclimate to the soil over the winter so they're ready to bloom the following year. Planting in the spring is also a good time, however, you're more limited on what flowers are available for purchase.

What is planted in the butterfly garden?

  • We have a wide variety of plants in the garden and will add more/replace as needed. Currently we have varieties of: Joe Pye Weed, Milkweed, Catmint, Black-eyed Susan, Aster, Coneflower, Goldenrod, St. John's Wort, Bee Balm, Butterfly Bush, and Switchgrass.

How did you choose what to plant?

  • We did a lot of research on what plants would attract a wide variety of butterflies (see resources below) and what would be good host plants for caterpillars as well. We also chose native plants to ensure they would thrive and not become invasive.

Is there a water source for the butterflies?

  • Butterflies actually get all the liquid they need from nectar. However, butterflies do need places to "puddle". In nature, butterflies "puddle" on the edges of calm rivers or ponds where the water is shallow but has essential nutrients and minerals. In a garden, you can create a "puddler" with a shallow dish or bird bath filled completely with a wet sand/manure mixture, and then add some large stones for the butterflies to rest on. We're going to have two "puddlers" in the garden and might add more depending on their use. Check out our resources below for more information about "puddlers".

location

High Bridge Glens Park, 1817 Front Street

resources