Most butterflies feed on nectar and lay their eggs on plants that the caterpillars will eat after they hatch. Many butterflies will only lay eggs on specific types of plants that are native to the area. They don't recognize introduced plants like boxwood and barberry. To support butterflies, grow native plants.

In cold winter climates, most butterflies spend the winter as eggs, caterpillars or chrysalises, often under a pile of leaves or at the base of a plant. Leave some of the leaves in your yard.

Avoid pesticides and leaf blowers.