When you want to dress up an outfit you usually add jewelry, something that sparkles and draws the eye, something to enhance the beauty already there.
 That's exactly what butterflies do for your garden.
Drawing butterflies to your garden is not difficult at all.
 It's as simple as providing the type of environment they need.
  Temperature: Butterflies favorite temps are between 75 degrees F and 90 degrees F so a very sunny location is ideal for Midwestern gardeners.
 A location that is not too windy is also helpful with shrubs or plants nearby for shelter, protection or cooling off when necessary.
Hosting and Feeding: Butterflies need a place to lay their eggs, feed their young and feed themselves.
 Most of the plants I read about for hosting the larvae (caterpillars) were in the grass or weed category.
 I'm not willing to plant those in my garden and not crazy about the larvae feeding on my plants, but I might think twice about pulling every weed down along the fence line or under the bushes.
(Any excuse will do!) Regardless the butterflies do come to my garden and the plants they enjoy the most are by far the Purple Coneflowers.
 They also enjoy the Bee Balm, Veronica and the Cosmos.
 Other plants butterflies enjoy are Aster, Yarrow, Black-eyed Susan, Zinnia, Butterfly Bush, Butterfly Weed, Verbena, Marigold and Joe Pye Weed.
Water: Just like birds and animals, butterflies need water.
 Shallow sources are the best.
A mud puddle, water filled saucer or even a pail filled with sand and kept moist are easy ways to provide the hydration they need.
 It is not uncommon to see a gathering of male butterflies on the edge of a puddle...
a behavior called "pooling".
Other Tips: A flat rock in a sunny spot provides a place for butterflies to rest and sometimes "warm up".
 Pesticides are dangerous for this beneficial insect and should be avoided if possible.
 Using organic alternatives is best.
  So next time you are out in the garden look around and see what easy changes you can make to accessorize your garden.
 A few "flying jewels" will add sparkle and delight!