Butterflies aren’t just beautiful creatures – they’re an important part of every ecosystem because, second only to bees, they pollinate much of our harvests. Butterflies also serve as an indicator of the environment’s health. Butterfly populations are suffering: land is being cleared and developed in North America at a staggering pace, and butterfly habitats are quickly dwindling.

You can help butterfly populations by growing your own easy-to-maintain butterfly garden. In some municipalities, including Toronto, butterfly gardens are subsidized, which is an added bonus of this eco-friendly gardening activity. Another selling feature: if you have children, growing a butterfly garden can be a fun eco-educational tool.

Where to start
Observe the types of butterflies you see living in your neighbourhood, consult a butterfly guidebook or website, or ask fellow butterfly gardeners which species inhabit your corner of the world.