To start with, try planting more native plants. Many native butterflies lay eggs ONLY on native “host plants.” For example, milkweed is the sole “host plant” for Illinois’ State insect, the Monarch Butterfly. To attract monarchs, plant “Common” Milkweed for fragrance and beauty and Butterfly Weed for its brilliant orange color. Plant other kinds too. Prairie Moon Nursery provides a catalog useful for creating a Milkweed Garden. Visit www.prairiemoon.com.
Pesticides kill butterflies, dragonflies, fireflies, birds and orb weaver spiders. Pesticides can sicken young children and pets and have been linked to human cancer, reproductive and genetic difficulties. However, under Illinois law, you have the right to protect yourself by being notified by your neighbors’ landscapers before they spray or treat your neighbors’ lawns.
Information regarding the health risks associated with pesticides and insecticides can be obtained through the Safer Pest Control Project, 25 E. Washington, Chicago. Call 312-641-5575, or email: info@spcpweb.org. Complaints about non-complying lawn services can be directed to the Ill. Dept. of Agriculture at 800-641-3934. Wilmette Golf Course spraying can be avoided by asking to be notified in advance of scheduled lawn treatment. Discuss with the Park District your concerns about pesticides.
