This year’s butterfly migration was unlike any other I’ve ever seen. So many pictures from all over Texas showed an increase in Monarchs. I think what is most awe-inspiring is the same butterflies that were feasting on the Cow Pen Daisy in Texas were in Canada not too long ago. That, my friends, is simply miraculous.
The Fall Monarch migration depends largely on pollinators. A Monarch Butterfly will fly thousands of miles south, in need of energy sources and rest along the way. After much curiosity and research, I discovered that Monarch butterflies actually remember food sources. Somehow, this understanding is passed down from generation to generation. Food sources become instilled in the pathways of Monarchs. Butterflies remember!
Over the past decade, I have worked endlessly on restoring the studio grounds for a natural habitat. I have planted many different natives and other butterfly pollinators, but the Cow Pen Daisy was the game changer. Once I brought in Cow Pen Daisy, it was on! Each year, the Monarch numbers doubled. This year, I have a Monarch sanctuary. A place of recharge and rest. The Monarchs arrive on an invisible pathway in the sky, and rest in the shade of the old Live Oak Trees. They enjoy the food sources available, and sleep safe and sound on tree branches.
It’s not too late to start planning for next year’s Monarch Migration. Let’s face it, gardeners rarely let idle time slip through their fingers. We are always thinking about the next great thing to add to our garden oasis…whether it be a project, a pond, a plant or a butterfly habitat. Remember, there’s always room in the garden for more beauty, bulbs and butterflies.
“Go ahead and splurge. It’s the only way”
Happy Gardening, my friends!
Heirloombulbgirl 