Butterfly numbers, however, have been declining in Scotland and across the UK due to factors such as habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use. According to Butterfly Conservation in their State of the UK’s Butterflies Report (2023), 76% of the UK’s resident and regular migrant butterfly species have declined in the past 40 years. By planting butterfly-friendly gardens, we can contribute to reversing this trend with plants and flowers to attract them to our gardens.
Butterflies play a key role in pollination, aiding in the reproduction of many plants. They transfer pollen from one flower to another, facilitating the production of seeds and fruits. Butterflies also serve as food for birds, bats, and other wildlife, making them an integral part of the food chain. Supporting butterfly populations helps maintain a balanced and healthy ecosystem.
Butterflies will visit a garden if they can feed on suitable nectar plants and a well thought out garden can attract many species. Nectar provides butterflies and moths with energy to fly and find a mate. In spring, it helps butterflies refuel after winter hibernation or a gruelling journey to our shores from southern Europe or Africa.
In autumn, nectar helps butterflies to build up their energy reserves so they have the best chance of surviving hibernation or the journey back to warmer climes. The more we thoughtfully plant for them, the more butterflies there will be.
Light Requirements: full sun.
Soil Type: well-drained.
Description: Buddleja, know as the butterfly bush, produces large, nectar-rich flowers in summer that are magnets for numerous butterfly species. Keep deadheading spent blooms to encourage new flowers. The tallest buddlejas can grow several metres high in a single season.
Soil Type: well-drained, slightly alkaline.
Description: the fragrant purple flowers are a magnet for butterflies, especially in warmer months. Lavender thrives in sunny, sheltered spots but cold, waterlogged soil can finish them off over winter, so be sure to pick their planting spot well.
Light Requirements: full sun to partial shade.
Soil Type: moist but well-drained.
Description: these hardy perennials offer long-lasting blooms which provide nectar for butterflies and seeds for birds. The flowers are sun-lovers but the lower plant is happier in the shade of surrounding plants.
Light Requirements: full sun. Soil Type: adaptable to various soil types, prefers a well-drained spot. Description: this wildflower blooms from June to September and is a favourite among moths and butterflies like the Meadow Brown and Painted Lady.
Soil Type: well-drained, prefers chalky or limestone-rich soils, and will tolerate a damp border.
Description: the delicate pincushion-shaped flowers, which grow on wiry stems of up to 70cm (2’4”) tall, are highly attractive to butterflies, especially the Common Blue.
Description: this herb is not only useful in the kitchen but its small, pink flowers are a nectar source for butterflies.
Description: hebes are evergreen shrubs that produce clusters of small flowers, highly attractive to butterflies like the Red Admiral.
Soil Type: sandy, well-drained.
Description: this hardy perennial is perfect for coastal gardens and attracts a variety of butterflies.
Soil Type: moist, well-drained.
Description: stiff branching stems hold aloft small purple flowers which are almost luminous in intensity, attracting a variety of butterflies such as the Peacock and Comma. Although perennial, they do not reliably come through a Scottish winter but self-seed freely to ensure a continuous supply.
By planting butterfly-friendly gardens, we can help combat the decline in butterfly populations. Butterflies are indicators of a healthy environment and ecosystem; their presence in your garden not only enhances its beauty but also contributes to the biodiversity and health of your local area.
Join the effort by participating in local butterfly counts and supporting organisations like the Scottish office of Butterfly Conservation.
Every small action can lead to a significant impact on the conservation of these delicate and beautiful creatures. Take action now to embrace the joy of watching butterflies flutter through your garden, knowing that you can play a part in preserving their populations for future generations to enjoy.
