Help Monarch Butterflies Thrive: 5 Garden Flowers That Make a Difference

The monarch butterfly is more than just a beautiful insect - it's a symbol of transformation, resilience, and natural wonder. With a migration route that spans the entire North American continent, the monarch’s journey is one of nature’s greatest feats. At Red Sun Farms, we see a reflection of our own values in this remarkable creature—commitment, scale, and a connection to the land across three countries.

If you've ever wondered how you can support monarchs before they set off on their epic migration, you're not alone. While milkweed is essential for monarch caterpillars, adult butterflies depend on the nectar of a variety of late-season blooms—especially in the fall, when they need extra energy for their long flight south to Mexico.

Here are five native, late-blooming flowers that can help fuel their journey:

1. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)

Goldenrod is a powerhouse nectar plant for fall-flying monarchs. Often mistaken for ragweed (which does cause allergies), goldenrod is unfairly removed from gardens. In reality, native goldenrod species support over 126 types of butterflies and moths. Their bright golden blooms are a critical food source just as many summer flowers begin to fade.

2. Blue Mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum)

With its fuzzy, blue-violet blooms lasting into October, this native beauty is a favorite of many pollinators—including monarchs. Common in eastern North America, blue mistflower adds color and ecological value to any garden or roadside.

3. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium spp.)

Tall, drought-tolerant, and full of charm, Joe-Pye Weed blooms with soft pink flowers that create a buzz—literally. Its fall flowers are a magnet for butterflies and bees alike, making it a fantastic addition to pollinator-friendly landscapes.

4. Ironweed (Vernonia spp.)

Monarchs can’t get enough of ironweed’s rich purple blossoms. Native to central and eastern U.S., it thrives in prairies, marshes, and roadsides. With its bold color and resilience, ironweed offers both beauty and sustenance during the fall migration.

5. Asters (Symphyotrichum spp.)

Asters, especially the New England Aster, are classic late bloomers. Their daisy-like purple or pink flowers appear from August through October, providing vital nectar just when monarchs need it most.

Why It Matters

Planting these native flowers - or simply allowing them to grow can make a world of difference. Their late-season blooms give monarchs the fuel they need to complete their incredible 3,000-mile journey to overwintering grounds in Mexico. Even if you don’t have a garden, learning to identify and protect these plants and spreading awareness can help support monarch populations across North America.

At Red Sun Farms, we're proud to play a small part in this larger story. Together, with a little planting and a lot of passion, we can ensure the monarch’s journey continues for generations to come.

 

Source: World Wildlife Foundation