With the arrival of spring, pollinators such as the beloved Monarch butterfly need our help more than ever. These tiny yet mighty species travel through our neighborhoods and across vast distances, playing a crucial role in ecosystems by pollinating plants that sustain both wildlife and humans. From ensuring the food on our tables to maintaining the stunning bluebonnet fields that characterize Houston’s spring landscape, pollinators are indispensable. Here are five ways you can support them in their essential work.
Understanding the Monarch Butterfly’s Role
The Monarch butterfly is an iconic pollinator, known for its remarkable two-way migration from Mexico to Canada and back.
“They are a really special butterfly here in Texas and all throughout their range, all the way to Canada and down to Mexico,” said Erin Mills, resident entomologist at the Houston Botanic Garden. Monarchs act as indicators of broader environmental health, reflecting the status of other pollinators that depend on similar resources.
By tracking Monarch populations, researchers can assess the impact of climate change, pesticide use, habitat loss, and other challenges affecting pollinators.
“Each year, you can see on the bar graph that is going up and down, but it’s trending down south,” Mills noted, emphasizing the species’ continued decline. Last year’s count in Mexico reached a concerning low of 0.9 hectares, though this year has shown a modest increase.
Plant Native Flowers and Milkweed
A critical step in supporting Monarchs and other pollinators is planting native plants.
“Native plants have created long-lasting and special relationships with our native wildlife, pollinators, and insects,” Mills explained. Unlike exotic plants, native species provide the right kind of nectar and pollen, supporting the natural lifecycle of pollinators.
Houston-area gardeners should prioritize planting native milkweed, which serves as the Monarch caterpillar’s primary food source. However, Mills cautions against tropical milkweed, which can disrupt migration patterns in the fall.
“If we have milkweeds that are up and green and thriving, that confuses the Monarchs into stopping here instead of going to Mexico. We want to keep them going to Mexico because it’s very special there.”
Some native plants ideal for Houston gardens include:
- Antelope horns milkweed (Asclepias asperula) – A preferred host plant for Monarch caterpillars.
- Gregg’s mistflower (Conoclinium greggii) – A butterfly magnet that attracts Queen and Monarch butterflies.
- Texas lantana (Lantana urticoides) – Provides nectar for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Supports various pollinators with its bright yellow flowers.
- Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – A robust perennial that attracts bees and butterflies.
- Mexican hat (Ratibida columnifera) – A drought-tolerant wildflower that provides ample nectar.
- Winecup (Callirhoe involucrata) – A sprawling groundcover that supports bees and other pollinators.
If you do have tropical milkweed, she asks if you can help by cutting the tropical milkweed in your garden in the fall to mimic the native species as Monarch butterflies travel south to Mexico for their wintering sites.
Keep Gardens Pesticide-Free
Chemical pesticides and herbicides harm not only pests but also beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
“Making your gardens pesticide-free and ready for pollinators and other insects… just doing those things will help Monarchs all along their way,” Mills advised.
Opt for organic gardening methods, such as companion planting and natural predators, to control unwanted pests while maintaining a safe habitat for pollinators.
Provide Water and Shelter
Pollinators need water sources to stay hydrated, especially in the warm Texas climate. A shallow dish with stones or a birdbath can serve as a resting and drinking station for bees and butterflies. Additionally, leaving natural elements such as logs, brush piles, and undisturbed soil in your yard can create nesting sites for solitary bees and other beneficial insects.
Support Conservation Efforts
Beyond gardening, participating in local conservation initiatives can make a significant difference. Houston Botanic Garden offers a variety of educational programs and events focused on pollinator conservation.
“Coming up in April, we’ve got a lot of events happening for Earth Month,” Mills shared.
“The Flower Power Festival on April 13th will be a fantastic opportunity to learn more about supporting pollinators.”
To explore these opportunities, visit hbg.org and check out their events calendar for upcoming workshops, nature journaling classes, and gardening courses tailored to native pollinators.
Every Garden Counts
By incorporating native plants, avoiding pesticides, providing water sources, and engaging in conservation efforts, every gardener can contribute to the survival of Monarchs and other pollinators. As Mills put it, “That’s really all that we can do to kind of help—plant lots of native milkweed and pollinator plants.”
This spring, take action to create a pollinator-friendly space in your garden. The future of these essential species depends on our collective efforts.
Keep up with green tips to support our local ecosystems and live sustainably with us on Que Onda Magazine.