Brits Urged to Make Homemade Butterfly Food to Boost Pollination in the Last Days of Summer
Families are being urged to help struggling butterfly populations by making homemade butterfly food – a quick, fun activity that also boosts pollination in gardens.
Outdoors experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk say the simple DIY project is not only an engaging late summer holiday activity for children, but also a vital way to support biodiversity.
Research shows that over the past 40 years, 42% of pollinator species have become less widespread, making extra nourishment more important than ever.*
UK butterfly populations in particular are facing significant challenges, with 80% of species having declined since the 1970s.**
Butterflies feed mainly on flower nectar and tree sap, but providing an extra food source in the form of homemade nectar can help give them an instant energy boost to help them survive and thrive in the last weeks of summer.
This is especially important for butterflies emerging later in the season, who need to prepare quickly for migration.
Butterflies given this easy source of energy are more likely to return to gardens and pollinate plants, helping to sustain biodiversity and strengthen the ecosystem, which in turn benefits other wildlife such as birds.
Chris Bonnett, garden centre boss and owner of GardeningExpress said: “Offering butterflies a simple source of nectar gives them the fuel they need, and in return they’ll help your garden flourish.
“This fun and easy summer activity provides an enjoyable way for families to learn about the importance of ecosystems and see the benefits first-hand in their own gardens.
“Just remember to replace homemade butterfly food regularly and avoid leaving it out for long periods, as it can attract pests or develop mould that could harm the insects.”
Here are four ways to make your own butterfly food:
- Mix sugar and water
Mix together a solution of water and sugar to attract butterflies. Boil the water until the sugar is dissolved and let cool before placing on a raised dish in your garden. Alternatively, you can soak the sugar liquid in a sponge.
- Leave ripened fruit outside
Overripe fruits such as berries, bananas and oranges are the perfect treat to offer butterflies. Simply cut them into chunks to make the juices easy to access.
- Make fermented fruit
Mash ripened fruit and mix with sugar. Leave in a warm place to ferment, then put in an easily accessible feeder outside to attract butterflies.
- Create a honey-water mix
Combine one tablespoon of honey with nine tablespoons of warm water, stir well and let it cool. Then, soak a cotton pad in the liquid and place it on a small plate in a sheltered, sunny spot.
