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9016 Robyn Rd
St Louis MO 63126
Phone: 314-827-6114
Copyright © 2006
The Tom Terrific Company LLC
Provide Water and Minerals for Your Butterflies
"Man does not live by bread alone," and the same holds true for butterflies. Butterflies
don't live by nectar alone. They need water and minerals too.
It's ironic that when I visit a local wildlife area, I often see more butterflies on the gravel
road or trail at a damp spot then I'll see flying over the flowers. The reason is they're getting
water and minerals from the damp soil and gravel. It's especially true in this type of setting that
the butterflies are looking for water and minerals when it's dry all around them.
In my gardens I water quite a bit and there's usually a damp spot or two around. If you tend to water infrequently, you might consider providing a wet spot, a soil and sand mixture you can keep damp for the butterflies. Again, since butterflies like the sun, try to situate it in a sunny area.
You might use a shallow plastic saucer or even a bit of plastic tarp and bury it so the top is even with the ground. Add the dirt, gravel, sand and water and you're all set. Just remember to keep it moist.
I've even heard of people adding salt, fireplace ashes and even a little urine to the mixture for the butterflies. Give it a try.
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