Florida-Friendly Landscaping™: Planting for Suncoast Butterflies

Transforming a standard yard into a native pollinator habitat is the focus of this horticultural class led by UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County. Held at Twin Lakes Park, the seminar introduces homeowners to the specific host and nectar plants required to support local butterfly species, including Monarchs and Gulf Fritillaries. Instructors detail how to cultivate milkweed, passionvine, and firebush while adhering to sustainable, low-water landscaping principles that thrive in the Florida climate. Participants learn how to identify different caterpillar stages and arrange their garden beds to provide adequate shelter, creating self-sustaining ecosystems that reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.