Abstract

Monarch waystations have tremendous potential for native plant nurseries, agencies managing public lands, and even the general public. Popularized by Monarch Watch, these specialized pollinator gardens provide habitat (food, shelter, and water) for monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus L. [Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae]) on their long migrations. Using source-identified and locally adapted seeds and nursery stock of milkweed (Asclepias L. spp. [Asclepiadaceae]) and flowering nectar plants, conservation groups and backyard gardeners can create critical habitat for this beleaguered butterfly. The unprecedented popular support for the plight of the monarch has made it a charismatic microfauna and has focused much-needed attention on the proven success of using native plants for restoration purposes.

TDLandis 2014.

Monarch waystations: propagating native plants to create travel corridors for migrating monarch butterflies