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INFORMATION FOR ADVANCED GARDENERS

If you've been in the native plant gardening world for years, here are some additional resources for you. If you garden already for butterflies, remember that even though those species with host plant relationships (like monarchs and milkweed) need a variety of nectar sources outside of the host plant. And don't forget about the other beneficial insects and other pollinators around your garden. Our ecosystems have developed natural predator-prey cycles over thousands of years. So think about embracing the other insects in your garden that maybe seem a little pesky, like wasps and flies, as they can help keep the pest population in check and many are pollinators too.

Field Guide - Selected Insects in Your Midwestern Native Garden

Use this guide to identify a wide range of insects in your midwestern garden. 

Field Guide - Selected Plants that Threaten Chicagoland Natural Areas

Use this guide to identify an uninvited plant in your garden and see if it is an invasive species. 

Field Guide - Creating Monarch Habitat in Your Midwestern Garden

Learn about the life cycle of the monarch butterfly and what native plants will support its caterpillars and feed adults

Field Guide - Spanish

Crear un hábitat para la mariposa monarca en su jardín del Medio Oeste.

Blog - Five Reasons to Add Native Plants in Your Garden

Read more to learn some compelling reasons to add native plants to your garden and to any landscape.

Blog - Milkweeds Can Save Monarchs and Beautify Your Garden

Learn about the critical role milkweed plays in the life of monarch butterflies and the different milkweed species native to our region.

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