Horn-like Osmeterium

It started with a backyard like many others. Some lawn, trees, and shrubs — just a random mix of gardening inherited from a long line of previous homeowners.

Without much thought, I added in some flowers from the local nurseries: peonies, roses, and a few of the commonly sold exotics. In response, I noticed very little wildlife. I convinced my husband to build a large pond, complete with a bubbly cobblestone river for the birds. The pond caused some action — birds arrived and toads began to visit the pond for spring mating rituals. I saw an occasional butterfly pass through, but they would never linger for long.

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As a child, I had been fascinated with butterflies, bees, and all other sorts of insects. I had played in the fields and delighted in the array of amazing insects that lived and dined on the native wildflowers. I decided to rethink my backyard with the goal of attracting butterflies.