The charity Butterfly Conservation is asking people to fight butterfly and moth declines with flowers. Just one square metre of nectar plants could feed hundreds of insects.
Habitat loss, intensive modern farming methods and climate change are threatening pollinator populations. The butterflies, moths, bees, wasps and beetles we rely on to pollinate crops and wildflowers are struggling.
Gardens can act as important refuges for wildlife seeking out food and shelter. If we all dedicate an area of our outdoor space to pollinator-friendly plants, we could transform our landscape and stop butterflies and moths disappearing from our neighbourhoods. There’s plenty of good advice about gardening for butterflies on the Butterfly Conservation website.
Will you take on the Plots For Pollinators challenge this summer? It might be easier than you think to make space in your garden for butterflies and moths. You could set aside an area of existing flower border, build a new raised bed or fill an empty corner of your patio or decking with a selection of containers. If space is limited, make the most of a wall or fence and create a vertical garden with hanging baskets or pots. See these top tips on butterfly gardening from well-known gardener Alan Tichmarsh.
Sign up on the Butterfly Conservation website to get a free guide and find out how you can make a difference with just one square metre of outdoor space.
Header photo: Gatekeeper on Yarrow (John Archer)
