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The Backyard Naturalists podcasts is geared toward nature lovers of all kinds, from beginners to those with more experience. We have a very diverse lineup of topics planned for you, such as  what you can do in your own yard to enhance the habitat for the creatures who live there, participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count as a citizen scientist, using native plants, which snakes live in our area,  how to attract specific birds, common and uncommon raptors in the greater Charlotte region, spring and fall migration season for birds, plants for butterflies and much more!

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  2. 🦋 Host Plants: Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Butterflies

🦋 Host Plants: Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Butterflies

May 10, 2025

Want to welcome butterflies to your yard and help them thrive? This week on The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie dig into the magical role of host plants—the essential “nurseries” for butterflies and other pollinators. 🌿🦋🐛

While nectar plants might get all the glory, host plants are where the real action happens: eggs are laid, caterpillars feed, and life cycles begin. This episode is your go-to guide for making your yard more butterfly-friendly—from milkweed to magnolia.

With personal stories, practical tips, and plenty of plant inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants their garden to be more than just beautiful—it can be a lifeline for native species.

🌼 In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • ✅ What host plants are and why they’re essential for butterfly reproduction

  • ✅ Native plant heroes like milkweed (monarchs!), fennel, violets, buttonbush & more

  • ✅ Why plant damage is a good thing (yes, chew marks mean caterpillars are thriving!)

  • ✅ How to support butterflies even in small spaces with containers and pots

  • ✅ Where to research region-specific host plants for your backyard

You’ll also get great resources like plantnative.com and gardendesign.com to start your pollinator-friendly garden journey.

🌻 Got caterpillars? Snap a pic and send it our way—we’d love to share your backyard wildlife success!