Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
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Tuesday - June 19, 2007
From: Cedar Hill, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Wildlife Gardens
Title: Butterflies and larval hosts in Dallas County
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
My class is starting a butterfly habitat at school. We have researched plants that attract butterflies, however we forgot to look for plants that feed the caterpillars and we want to provide the experience of the caterpillars turning to cocoons, then butterflies. What plants are best for this process? We are in the Grand Prairie area close to Mountain Creek Lake.ANSWER:
Visit the Dallas County Lepidopterists' Society's excellent web site for a list of butterflies found in Dallas County and the larval host and nectar plants that support them. Also, there are several titles (e.g., "Butterfly Gardening Resources" and "Creating a Wildlife Garden") in our How to articles that should be helpful to you.
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