We have some *really* great resources in our members on this forum. I would like to start a "sticky" thread with a list of plants that encourage specific types (or a lot of types) of butterflies, either the larval or adult forms. I would edit the first post to make a list of whatever anyone posted below.

We could also contribute this info to the general Database, as well.

Whaddya think?

Sounds great, it would be nice to have separate list for nectar and host plants. The host plants are not always pretty and don't always bloom, but are very important to the life cycle of our butterfly friends as a food source for the larval stage.

I agree.

Okay, evidently any moderator can edit the thread, too. Shall I start a new thread?

I am leaving that up to you ladies. There are already a lot posted on BBB forum somewhere, but needs to be moved or organized later.

Go ahead and start it, Sheryl, and we can add to it or move things to it when we come across them.

Undoubtedly there's places to find the information Shelia. I doubt there's much of anything you can't find on the web, for sure.

Start it and then we can eliminate this thread altogether.

Shelia, I will really need help with wording and stuff - would it be correct to list Larval and Adult? What designation would nectar or host plant be - should those be the list names or indicated by the plant?

I'm afraid I have more enthusiasm than knowledge in this area...

Well the host plants are those specific plants that the butterflies lay their eggs on. When the eggs hatch, they are the larva or caterpillars
and will eat that plant until they are ready to form their chrysalis (pupa stage).
Nectar plants are abundant and will support those butterflies that nectar, and some also are used by the hummers. Not all butterflies nectar, some feed on sap, dung, etc. But that is more than you want to know.

www.dallasbutterflies.com has a list of host plants for butterflies under butterfly gardening. The list is extensive, but you can see on there what I am talking about. You may also get a feel for how over-whelmed I felt trying to organize the forum.

Oh, I read again your question. To keep it simple put host plants as those the caterpillars eat, and nectar plants for the adult butterflies.

I agree, there is a ton of info out there. Perhaps between the three of us we can make it a bit more manageable - or you two can let me play until I get sick of it, lol!

Play on. I'll chime in when I can. Yes, I agree with Sheila about keeping the labels simple with "Host Plants" and "Nectar "and their definitions.

Should we delete this thread and go to your Sticky?

Ya'll have bfs covered and we have a lovely Bee Forum on ATP so one of these days I'll start the same type of Sticky for Birds.

I am open to whatever changes you want to make.

"I'd love to change the world...."



Tee, if you wanna start one, I promise to help...

Tee, is that your Christmas bromeliad? Very pretty!