[Gardening] informative article on decline of butterfly population & how to support them

*Linda Blue column: Smart planting attracts butterflies* http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20110611/LIVING/306110007/Right-plants… Who doesn't love to see colorful butterflies flitting through the garden? I've heard a number of folks comment that they no longer see the number of butterflies they used to. And science does back up the fact that the populations of many species of butterflies are declining. Butterfly enthusiasts think habitat destruction, lack of adequate host plants and inappropriate use of pesticides have contributed to the decline. Consider that since butterflies are native insects, their larva (caterpillars) feed almost exclusively on native plant species. Then think about the amount of native plant habitat that has been eliminated by development and replaced with non-native landscape plants. Gardeners who use insecticides on all their garden plants “just in case” there might be some pesky insect about, often kill more butterflies and their babies, as well as beneficial insects, than they do pests. Even organic products will kill these innocent bystanders if not used carefully. Simply planting certain types of flowers to attract butterflies is only part of the picture when gardening with butterflies in mind. If you want them to multiply, they have to hang around for a while and have the right plants for their babies to eat. A landscape with a variety of environments and plant types would be ideal for attracting a large variety of butterfly species, but don't let a small garden space deter you. Open, sunny spots usually work best, but butterflies will visit a small wooded lot if the right plants are there to attract them. Butterflies will be drawn to almost any brightly colored flower, but they do have their favorites. For nectar plants, it's hard to beat butterfly bush for attracting a wide variety of butterflies. Other shrubs include Caryopteris (blue mist shrub) and glossy Abelia. Among the most recommended perennials are Monarda (bee balm), Joe Pye weed, asters, sedums and Echinacea (purple coneflower). When selecting nectar plants, be sure to consider each plant's bloom period. You will want to make sure you have several attractive plants blooming from spring through fall. Annuals are particularly useful for ensuring a long bloom season. Some reliable butterfly magnets include Tithonia (Mexican sunflower), annual butterfly weed, zinnias and verbenas.