MILLERTON — Hopewell Junction resident Elice Seeger is concerned with the dwindling habitat available for butterflies due to developments being built in the area.
A master gardener volunteer with Cornell Cooperative Extension in Dutchess County, Seeger gave a presentation last Saturday at the NorthEast-Millerton Library on how to build and attract butterflies to gardens.
“Not only are butterflies beautiful and enjoyable to see in gardens, they are also pollinators,� she said. “There are 90 different butterfly breeds in Dutchess County, and quite common are the black swallowtail, the tiger tail and especially the monarchs.�
In her presentation she said that a garden needs host plants, such as milkweed, willow and elm, to attract caterpillars, then nectar plants for adults to feed on.
“You also need a water source for them and a way to protect them from wind,� she said. “If you incorporate all of those things, you will attract butterflies.�
She said that she has created gardens for butterflies for over 20 years.
“Any time you become interested in something, it just draws you in and takes you on an incredible journey of discovery,� she said. “And that right there is the fun of it."



Classic styles, bold colors, and creative concerts make up the “Imaginary Concerts” line at Peggy Mercury.Provided
Shirts from Peggy Mercury’s first fashion line, “Imaginary Concerts,” hang on display.Provided







