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Butterflies are in decline in the UK but are very important to gardeners as they help to pollinate plants.

By planting some of their favourite flowers you will help to bring more of these wonderful insects into your garden, on to your balcony, terrace or patio.    

Here are some plants that attract butterflies: 

• Early flowers, such as aubretia and primroses, are particularly useful for feeding butterflies that come out of hibernation in spring
• During April and May, honesty and sweet rocket are good choices
• Lavender, red valerian and thyme are midsummer varieties and will attract many insects
• In autumn, Michaelmas daisies, petunias and goldenrod can give butterflies a last chance to stock up with nectar before hibernating
• Buddleia, otherwise known as the butterfly bush, is great at attracting the insect throughout the summer months
• Nettles are another popular choice, particularly for Red Admirals and Peacock butterflies. If you plant the nettles in a pot it should prevent them from spreading and causing a nuisance
• Adult butterflies are dependent on nectar, but caterpillars prefer to eat plants, leaving an area of longer grass or wildflowers will provide food for them.