In Sarasota, Florida, at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the "Queen of the Night" blooms annually, drawing hundreds of visitors. Simultaneously, a growing movement of gardeners is emerging to counteract habitat loss and support native flora and fauna.
These gardeners are creating "way stations" to provide essential resources for wildlife, including Monarch butterflies. These way stations offer food, shelter, and breeding grounds, vital for the survival of various species.
Monarch butterflies, known for their long migrations, depend on these way stations for survival. They require milkweed for their caterpillars and nectar-rich flowers for adults, crucial for their journey from Mexico to Canada.
By planting native plants and creating these habitats, gardeners are playing a crucial role in sustaining Monarch populations. This initiative highlights the importance of individual actions in preserving biodiversity and supporting global ecosystems.
To further support pollinators, including Monarchs, the Master Gardeners are hosting an Environmental Field Studies class at Sahli Park in Chippewa Township. This hands-on session will teach participants about the relationships between native plants and pollinators, providing practical steps for creating supportive habitats.