The following larvae host plants are native to various regions of the United States and are available at native-plant nurseries: milkweed (Asclepias spp., USDA zones 3 to 9, depending on species; find your zone), golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea, zones 3 to 8), baptisia (Baptisia spp., zones 3 to 9), wild senna (Senna hebecarpa, zones 4 to 8), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium, zones 2 to 9), Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans, zones 4 to 9) and asters, just to name a few. Check with local nurseries, university extension offices or farmers markets to learn more about host plants native to your region.
How to Find the Right Native Plants for Your Yard
It’s important to remember that most butterfly and moth species can lay eggs only on certain plant species, and there are even native bees, called oligolectic bees, that use the pollen only from a certain plant genus or species to complete their life cycle.
A good plant does at least triple duty: It produces copious amounts of attractive pollen, which is the nutritious part of a bloom; it is a good place on which to lay eggs and good for being eaten by caterpillars; and it helps amend the soil, improving rainwater penetration and contributing to soil life.
from Houzz http://ift.tt/1KqNPGO
Advertisement
Sourced by "Home Hacks". Scouring and supporting the art of DIY home projects by sharing links and information provided by numerous active reputable DIY veterans and company's. Any projects you start please be of proper age, follow all required safety measures, and use the required protective equipment when handling any chemicals, power tools, or during any construction project. If you need advice regarding your next project we suggest visiting Contractor Talk.
