MAKE IT CUTE

Butterflies and bees are *essential* to our existence. It might sound silly, but we need them to pollinate the food supply for not only humans but for other animals and insects too. Planting a butterfly and bee garden can create a safe place for them—plus, it's adorable. Here is everything you need to know to have the most buzzing garden for Earth Day!

Benefits

Gardening can be a great way to put down your phone and connect with nature. It's a healthy hobby that can improve your mood, and help the environment. Also—it strengthens the butterfly and bee population in your area (important for pollination!)

@laurendonzis

Types of plants

Before creating shelter for the insects, you need to attract them first with their *fave* flowers and plants. A couple of examples are sunflowers, lavender, marigold, hollyhock and basil. Ofc, the options are endless—these are just a starting point for building a beautiful garden. Get out your tools and remember to water the plants while giving them lots of sunlight. 

Shelter and water

Once you have butterflies and bees visiting, creating a safe place for them to stay is essential. Build (or invest) in a nontoxic wood house where insects can lay their eggs and rest. It's also *key* to have a good water supply. (P.S. Butterflies love mud puddles since they have good nutrients!)

@emmaleger

Keep them safe

Make sure to *never* spray pesticides or any other dangerous chemicals in your yard. It will definitely scare the insects away and possibly harm them. Butterfly and bee gardens are safe spaces for insects, so make sure to keep them that way!

If you're looking for more environmentally friendly content, check out these posts:
🦋  5 plants that are cute *and* easy to take care of
🐝  Turn your room into a plant-filled paradise
🦋  5 so-cute Earth Day date ideas

Check out @girlslifemag on Instagram for more content!

All GIFs via Giphy
Slider image: @emmaleger

by Kelly Schwint | 4/22/2022