St Lawrence Butterfly Garden

In January 2007, this photo was taken of the 11' x17' area in the new courtyard. It was determined that this area would make an ideal location for a butterfly garden due to the abundance of sunshine, the "setback" location, and the great visibility from the school building.

After careful research, in March 2007, a garden was installed that provided a good variety of host and nectar plants for butterflies.  Even though this garden was newly planted, a "supply" of monarch caterpillars was brought in so the school children could immediately commence their "life cycle" studies.

The garden is flourishing!!  Not only are the plants doing well, but the garden has a "new addition" .....an award-winning rain barrel represented by the 2nd Grade Class of St. Lawrence.  The rain barrel has been permanently installed in the SW corner of the garden to help supply water.  This photo taken in March 2008, which is one year after the garden's installation, shows the amazing growth that has occurred.   Two different types of butterflies regularly frequent the garden, Monarchs and Sulfurs.  However, several other varieties visit as well.  This area has already been home to hundreds of caterpillars in 2008 and the St. Lawrence children have been able to witness the entire life cycle (from egg laying to chrysalis hatching) within this confined area.  Additionally, several classes are currently growing milkweed within their classroom to supplement the "necessary plant" for those ravenous Monarchs!