Butterflies prefer certain plants

By By Amelia O’Brian / horticulture columnist
Nov. 17, 2002
Dear Gardener: I have read that certain butterfly species prefer to lay their eggs on particular plants. This year we had an abundance of butterflies in our garden, but not many caterpillars were ever present.
I have two small children and would love the opportunity to teach them about the process of metamorphosis. Can you suggest any plants for me to place in the garden next year to encourage the butterflies to lay eggs?
Dear Reader: You are correct in assuming that while butterflies will feed off many different plants, many require certain plants for egg-laying. This is because the caterpillars require specialized diets.
One of the pickiest species is the monarch butterfly. It will only lay its eggs on the leaves of the milkweed plant. Painted lady butterflies prefer thistles, hollyhocks and legume plants.
The eastern tiger swallowtail is fairly common since its caterpillars feed on a variety of plants, including tulip trees, birches, willows and sweet bay magnolias. The viceroy also fancies willows as well as poplars and cottonwoods.
These are just a few of the species found in our area. There are many more not named; I just chose a few of the more recognizable ones. While researching this subject, I found a great Web site entitled Butterflies of North America. Many, many more species are listed in its pages.
Dear Gardener: This may seem like an unusual question, but I wasn't sure whom else to ask. I have just purchased a small home in the country and I am looking forward to acquiring a small herd of goats in the spring. I plan to put them into a fairly good-sized, fenced-in area that is pretty overgrown. Are there any plants that I should worry about being poisonous to goats?
Dear Reader: I personally do not know much about raising goats, but I will list a few common plants that are generally toxic to livestock. A better resource would probably be the local extension agency.
Some plants widely found in overgrown areas that are toxic are wild mustard, milkweed, Carolina jessamine and lobelia. Also be aware that lantanas, yews, lily of the valley, larkspur and buckeyes are poisonous.
Dear Gardener: In previous columns you have mentioned a substance called vermiculite. What exactly is this stuff and where would I get it?
Dear Reader: Vermiculite is a mineral that resembles mica in appearance. It has been used for years as an addition to soil-less potting mediums. It is the very small, silver flakes in your purchased potting mix.
The completely sterile mineral improves aeration and drainage while retaining water and nutrients that will be released to plant roots as needed. The material is non-toxic and readily available to the horticulture industry.
As for obtaining vermiculite, check with local garden or home improvement centers. They should carry it, or should be able to help you locate some.