SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – With spring around the corner, University of Missouri Extension field horticulturist Kelly McGowan urges gardeners to consider how they can help monarch butterflies.

Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) are one of the most popular and well-known insects, but populations are declining. McGowan says declines can be attributed to many factors, including breeding habitat loss, changes in weather patterns, extreme weather during migration, pesticide use, disease and issues at Mexican overwintering sites.

“While this news can be discouraging, there are things we can do to help,” she says.

Plant milkweed

Milkweed is the only plant species eaten by the monarch caterpillars, and it also provides beautiful, nectar-filled flowers for the adults. There are many types of milkweeds, most of which are native to Missouri, with a variety of flower colors and habitat requirements. They can make great additions to the home landscape, McGowan says.

Plan pollinator gardens

Incorporate milkweed plants into a backyard garden with a variety of pollinator-friendly plants. While most pollinators prefer native plants, some annuals such as zinnias can be included. Plants that provide early-season and late-season blooms are also needed. This is especially helpful for monarchs during their spring and fall migrations. A water/mud-puddling source and a place to shelter from weather extremes are also helpful.

Reduce pesticide use

Reducing use of pesticides is also important, says McGowan.  Not only can direct contact be harmful, but secondary exposure such as wind contamination and feeding on plants with chemical residue can be a factor.

Protect overwintering sites

Protection of overwintering sites is also vital. These sites include trees, shrubs and other areas where insects can seek refuge from harsh winter conditions. Monarchs generally winter in California and Mexico.

The monarch is the only butterfly known to make a two-way migration as birds do, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Unlike other butterflies that can overwinter as larvae, pupae or even as adults in some species, monarchs cannot survive the cold winters of northern climates. Using environmental cues, the monarchs know when it is time to travel south for the winter. Monarchs use a combination of air currents and thermals to travel long distances. Some fly as far as 3,000 miles to reach their winter homes.

McGowan visited two Mexican overwintering sites in 2023, one of which contained 80% of the world’s overwintering monarchs.

“These incredible sites are high in oyamel fir forests about 2 miles above sea level,” she says. Monarchs cling together on the fir trees for warmth and protection during the winter and start their migration northward in late winter or early spring. “These very remote, incredibly fragile habitats are threatened by deforestation, poverty, political unrest and corruption by local cartels. While these are large issues, we can help by educating ourselves and others on monarch migration and protection of these sites.”

Butterflies and other pollinators are indicator species of a healthy environment.  “While monarchs get the most attention, it is imperative that we protect other pollinators, which have also had population declines,” McGowan says. “Fortunately, there are things we can do on a small scale that can make a difference.”

Beginning in May, MU Extension will offer a Master Pollinator Steward program in at least six locations, including Columbia. Registration opens May 1. To register, email Debi Kelly at KellyD@missouri.edu. Type “Master Pollinator” in the subject line.

Photo

https://extension.missouri.edu/sites/default/files/legacy_media/wysiwyg/News/photos/althoff_monarch.jpg
Pollinator gardens typically consist of a variety of pollinator-friendly plants. Learn how to increase pollinator populations by participating in MU Extension’s Master Pollinator Steward program, which begins in May. Photo courtesy of Emily Althoff.