do provide nectar, their primary role is as a host plant for monarch eggs and caterpillar development during the spring.
However, tropical milkweed, a popular non-native variety commonly sold in garden centers, blooms longer into fall than native milkweed varieties.
Because of this, Mike Arnold, Ph. D., professor and director of The Gardens at Texas A & M University, suggests pruning back tropical milkweed as fall approaches.
“ If you don’ t prune it back, some of the butterflies may be tempted to stay because they have a steady source of food,” Arnold said.
Monarchs who remain face the threats of harsh winter temperatures and scarce resources. They are also susceptible to parasites that favor late fall and winter conditions.
With a migratory journey of roughly 3,000 miles, it is critical for monarchs to find sustenance along the way. Brown and Arnold said there are a variety of native nectarproducing perennials that provide beautiful landscaping options, thrive in Texas’ oftentimes harsh climate, and, most importantly, benefit monarchs and other pollinator species. These selections include:— Gregg’ s mistflower— Frostweed— Fall aster— Maximilian sunflower— Blazing star varieties— Goldenrod varieties— Flame acanthus— Buttonbush Arnold said now is the time to plant these fall-blooming perennials so they become relatively established before the stressful heat of summer.
Annual flower varieties provide additional nectar sources as well as color to a pollinator landscape. Although not native to Texas, annuals like zinnias, marigolds and cosmos thrive within the region and provide dynamic colors to the landscape.
If landowners want to plant these flowers specifically for monarchs, Arnold suggests waiting until mid-to-late summer to sow seeds.
“ If planted now, these blooms will peak during the heat of the summer prior to migration,” Arnold said.“ With a little planning, you can ensure the flowers are in peak bloom during monarch migration.”
In addition to nectar sources, Brown said providing insects with safe access to water is always a good idea.
“ I recommend a shallow dish with pebbles or decorative shells that provide a landing surface above the water,” Brown said.“ In order to avoid mosquitoes, you want something that will dry out every three to five days, but that also means you will need to refill with clean water.”
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