If you need inspiration to start that butterfly garden you've been thinking of, all you need to do is take a trip to Key West. At the Conservatory, you'll experience an impressive collection of flowering plants, colorful birds, cascading waterfalls and trees that set the stage for the "flowers of the sky." Witness a variety of some 50 to 60 butterfly species from around the world, along with over 20 exotic bird species, all under a climate- controlled, glass enclosed habitat.
The newly emerged butterfly shown above was released into the atrium during my visit over the holidays.
www.keywestbutterfly.com
Learn how to help butterflies by planting native wildflowers: Florida Wildflower Foundation.
The Florida Native Plant Society also provides information on butterfly attracter plants that we can use in our landscapes and help preserve Florida's native plant heritage.
The North American Butterfly Association has information for all areas of the United States.
