UMass Extension has been contacted recently with concerns about perceived butterfly decline in certain areas of Massachusetts in 2020. However, no sampling or data-driven information is available to support or refute these concerns. If you have seen butterflies on your property or properties that you manage, we want to hear about it! Please take this short survey which asks about just a few of the more recognizable species that may be found in Massachusetts at https://forms.gle/nswZQE3Zy4emV2hx6.
Stay alert for plant sales at local nurseries and garden centers. With home gardeners planting more than previous years, some locations may be sold out of your favorite items. Call ahead if you are looking for anything specific!
Coneflowers (Echinacea) are herbaceous, drought-tolerant, deer-resistant perennial plants growing up to 4 feet in height. They have large, showy heads of composite flowers, blooming the entire summer. Many garden centers will have this North American native flower in stock. Their pollen attracts bees and butterflies, and the seedheads attract songbirds.
Harvest some new potatoes.
Steam or stir-fry young seedpods of bolted radishes.
Pick zucchini before it reaches the size of a baseball bat.
Plant Something Massachusetts is a project of Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association, and was originally established in partnership with Massachusetts Flower Growers’ Association.