Winter a Perfect Time to Dream of Spring Colors
December 17, 2000

Winds howl, snow swirls, the air is chilly...so, one dreams of a garden of colorful flowers, the happy buzz of bumblebees and brilliant, varied butterflies flitting. Dreams that are to translate into reality involve planning and effort

As a feature of plans for extended educational programs, Woodland Dunes Nature Center is developing materials for students in grade five. An outline, entitled the Four "B's," which will include activities related to bees, beetles, bugs and butterflies is on active file.

Problem: A handy place, near the Marsh Haus is needed to congregate the subjects for "hands on" study. A "butterfly garden" was deemed the answer.

A local naturalist with a special interest in bumblebees volunteered to spearhead the planning and development of such a garden at the Woodland Dunes headquarters.

A grassy, overgrown field near the Marsh Haus was selected for a site. This year the area was prepared by removing the original vegetation to ensure that introduced plants would have a head start. Berms were built to provide areas above the water level to attract subterranean nesting bumblebees, and incidentally a high and dry place for native plants that need a dryer environment than the natural habitat provides.

"Native" is a tricky word. Native to what? Many plants listed in books on butterfly gardening include exotic annuals and perennials, and although attractive to butterflies, have no place in a "wild" example. It is the goal at Woodland Dunes to restrict plantings to strictly American if not Wisconsin natives. Any plants that might become invasive will be kept under control.

The garden area will also include shrubs and trees that are noted for their nectar supply. Plants that will provide food for the larvae form of butterflies will also be included. Dozens of kinds of plants have been put into the area throughout the year. Mulched paths will facilitate touring the area without any destruction of the vegetation. Memorial donations have provided amenities such as a bench for restful enjoyment.

Additions to attract a wide variety of native butterflies will eventually include a pond and a replica of a bog.

Although the natural areas of Woodland Dunes are an attraction in themselves, manipulated habitats will provide opportunities for close, at-hand study for students and the public.

Bumblebee queens are hibernating in snug quarters underground. Some adult butterflies are sleeping in sheltered spots, larvae and eggs of others await the springtime.

Winter...a time to dream.