One of the most exciting parts of spring is getting to enjoy the outdoors alongside the beautiful wildlife that is starting to emerge this time of year. Butterflies begin to lay eggs in March and April, so by the time May rolls around, fully-grown butterflies will begin to beautify your garden.

If you want to see gorgeous butterflies and other species enjoying your garden through the spring and summer, follow some of these tips for when, what, and where to plant!

When to start:
Butterflies and most species of birds start to lay their eggs from March through April, so getting a jump-start on your planting is important.

What to plant:
Plants like milkweed and parsley are the best places for butterflies to lay their eggs, but you’ll also want a host of “nectar plants,” too, so they will have something to eat once fully grown.

Potential Nectar Plants to Use:

• Butterfly Bush
• Aster
• Zinnia
• Bee Balm

Most of these plants also attract hummingbirds, making them particularly poised to help transform your garden into a wildlife oasis.

Where to plant:
Generally, plants that attract butterflies and other wildlife will need at least six hours of sunlight per day, so avoid planting in spots that receive a lot of shade. It’s also important to have a nearby water source for the wildlife to pick up essential nutrients—just be sure to keep it very shallow.

Keep your butterfly-attracting floras away from potentially invasive species, like Inca Vine or fruit and vegetable plants, and avoid spraying with harmful weed killers to ensure the butterflies have a safe and comfortable home.