Had a Spicebush Swallowtail visit

Was out in the garden taking pictures of new blooms; saw the telltale folded leaf on the Spicebush. Investigated, found 2 caterpillars!! They are only 3/16" right now and will grow to about 2". Pictures to follow.

Learn how to adopt a caterpillar and watch the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. Start getting ready for the monarchs. They take 14 days from egg to butterfly, one of the shortest cycles.

Other species can take up to a full season. I will be getting more information of this process. Start looking for Milkweed in your area. You need a steady supply to feed a Monarch caterpillar. Milkweed is in bloom right now - usually growing in fields, and bare patches. You would need to have it be close enough to go harvest leaves as needed. They use maybe 1 big leaf every day as they get bigger. You can cut stems and keep them fresh in water, also. So keep an eye out, because I usually have lots and lots of eggs over here, the end of July, beginning of August. Unlike others who lay eggs throughout the season, Monarchs only lay at this time each year - so it makes it easier to know when to look for them.

If you do have Milkweed, or know where to find a source, let me know if you want a caterpillar when they come. There will be a high demand for these as Milkweed is so easy to find. And of course, VIP and Preferred Gardeners will get preference.