Letters

As we welcome the warmer weather, many of us are eagerly anticipating the arrival of beautiful butterflies in our gardens. But did you know that these winged wonders also are one of the declining groups of insects that pollinate our flowers, birds, trees and food supply?

You can enjoy both their beauty and support their survival by providing them with the right plants that serve as the food for the four distinct stages of their growth cycle: eggs, larvae, which will spin a chrysalis, and develop into a butterfly.

The majority of butterflies and moths lay their eggs on specific plants that have evolved to feed the caterpillars that emerge from their eggs, called host larval plants. The female butterfly knows instinctively to lay her eggs on them. The most familiar example of this is the monarch butterfly, which has experienced a 75 percent reduction in the last five years. She can only lay her eggs on the milkweed plant. You can plant several of the nine varieties, all which are increasingly available at local nurseries.

The most important plants that host our butterflies and moths are native trees and shrubs, the ones we plant and the ones we preserve. Oak trees support 557 caterpillar species in total, followed by native cherry trees, 456 species. A native willow tree hosts 455 different species.

Seriously consider the eco life that these trees support before deciding to eliminate them from your landscape.

Native trees, shrubs and perennials are four times more effective in attracting pollinators than nonnative ornamental plants and require less care and water since they are acclimated to our environment. Diversity of plants is important, as the more you can include in your garden, the greater the number of species you will attract and support. Get started with a handful of plants in your garden — every bit helps.

For more information, see perfectearthproject.org, xerxerces.org or ccesuffolk.org

Once established, share your garden and inspire others to both emulate what you have created and to observe the species you are supporting. As we each make habitats in our yards, the insects have a greater chance of surviving and increasing their numbers, enabling us to become true stewards of the environment.

Ruth Ann Stanley

Conservation Committee

Westhampton Garden Club