There are at least 250,000 species of moths. In the United Kingdom many of the 2,500 species are declining, or becoming extinct, and the main reason for this is a loss of their habitat. The decline of moths will also have a knock-on effect to bats, birds and also mammals. So, how can we help preserve our moth numbers?
Moths are nocturnal, sleeping during the day and being active through the night. However, some species are diurnal, meaning that they are active during the day, whilst others are crepuscular, so are active at twilight. Moths feed on the nectar of flowers, just like butterflies, so if you want to increase the number of moths visiting your garden, there are certain types of flowers and shrubs you will want to plant in your garden to ensure it is moth friendly. To ensure future survival of certain species, it is also worth remembering that some plants are necessary just for moths to lay their eggs on too.
Taking into account flowers and shrubs for the different seasons is important too, as this will provide them with a steady supply of food throughout the year. The more old-fashioned plants tend to produce more nectar than the modern, hybrid versions. Here is a list of ten plants to help attract moths to your garden.
- Jasmine Officinale – Is a summer flowering plant that tends to open its flowers in the evening, so is attractive to moths.
- Honeysuckle – This flowers in summer and those flowers tend to open in the evening, filling the garden with scent.
- Evening Primrose – This is ideal for moths as the scented flowers open in the early evening and close around mid-morning.
- Night-Scented Stocks – These flowers seem withered during the day but open during the evening. They will grow throughout summer.
- Buddleia (or Butterfly Bush) – flowers from summer through to the autumn. The flowers are strongly scented and vary in colour.
- Bluebell – This flowers in April and May.
- Primrose -The Primrose is a hardy bloomer that comes in a variety of colours, including yellow and purple. It is also a very fragrant flower. Primroses flower in the spring and can bloom all through summer, especially if planted in the shade.
- Ice Plant – Flowers late summer right through to late autumn. It likes being in full sun and has lots of tiny pink flowers.
- Common Ivy – This flowers October and November so provides essential late nectar. It is often left to climb through trees and over garages etc, and this is good for attracting moths.
- Dandelion – and certain other plants that are considered as weeds, can be beneficial for moths.
