On July 28, 2022, the International Union for Conservation of Nature announced that monarch butterflies are now classified as endangered. This news was expected by many butterfly enthusiasts, as monarch populations have decreased by around 80%. Habitat loss and climate change are the main contributors to this decline.
Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) are known for their striking orange and black wings, but their most remarkable feature is their 3,000-mile migration between central Mexico and the northern U.S. They travel this vast distance twice a year, laying eggs on milkweed plants along the way. Remarkably, each generation of monarchs continues the journey, even though they aren’t the same individuals that started it.
How You Can Help Monarchs
The good news is that gardeners can play a crucial role in saving monarchs by providing them with the resources they need to thrive. Here’s how you can contribute:
1. Plant Milkweed
Milkweed is essential for monarchs, as it serves as both their food and a place to lay eggs. Three species are particularly beneficial:
- Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa): This is the best choice for flower gardens because it grows in a compact form, requires minimal care, and thrives in full sun.
- Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata): This variety needs moist soil and partial shade, making it ideal for wetter areas.
- Common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca): While it’s vigorous and prefers meadows, it can spread rapidly and may take over other parts of your garden.
Pruning common milkweed by mid-July encourages new growth, which provides healthier foliage for monarch larvae. A citizen science project from the University of Michigan, “Regrow Milkweed for Monarchs,” shows that late-season regrowth leads to larger, healthier larvae and more successful monarchs.
2. Protect Monarch Larvae
Predators can target monarch larvae, so it’s helpful to cover milkweed plants with lightweight netting or row covers. This keeps caterpillars safe while they grow, and they will naturally crawl away to pupate when ready.
3. Create a Monarch Waystation
The Monarch Waystation program, hosted by the University of Kansas, encourages the creation of gardens that support monarchs. Nearly 50,000 gardens are now registered across the country. These gardens don’t need to be large, but they should contain milkweed as well as other nectar-rich plants such as:
- Mexican sunflower (Tithonia)
- Zinnias
- Native goldenrods and asters
A Monarch Waystation doesn’t require a specific layout, but it should occupy at least 100 square feet of space. Such gardens provide migrating monarchs with a place to rest and refuel during their long journey.
4. Rearing Monarchs
Some gardeners also help by rescuing monarch caterpillars and raising them in safe environments. This involves providing fresh milkweed leaves daily for two weeks and ensuring a secure spot for pupation. Although this process is labor-intensive, it is deeply rewarding. Watching a monarch emerge from its chrysalis and spread its wings is an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
Monarch butterflies face significant challenges, but with collective action, we can help ensure their survival. By planting milkweed, creating Monarch Waystations, and rearing monarchs, we can all contribute to preserving this iconic species for future generations.