Creating a butterfly garden in an outdoor plant box is a delightful way to attract these beautiful pollinators while adding vibrant colors to your space. To design a thriving butterfly-friendly container garden, focus on including nectar-rich flowers and host plants that caterpillars rely on.

Top Butterfly-Attracting Plants for Plant Boxes:

1. Lantana – A sun-loving perennial with clusters of tiny flowers in bright hues, irresistible to butterflies.

2. Milkweed (Asclepias) – Essential for monarch butterflies, serving as both a nectar source and a host plant for caterpillars.

3. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea) – A hardy, drought-tolerant plant that provides ample nectar for butterflies.

4. Zinnias – Easy-to-grow annuals with long-lasting blooms that attract a variety of butterfly species.

5. Verbena – A low-maintenance plant with clusters of small flowers, perfect for continuous blooming.

Tips for a Successful Butterfly Plant Box:

- Sun Exposure: Place your plant box in a sunny spot, as most butterfly-friendly plants require at least 6 hours of sunlight.

- Variety: Mix different bloom times to ensure a steady food supply throughout the season.

- Avoid Pesticides: Opt for organic gardening methods to protect butterflies and caterpillars.

By carefully selecting these plants and following best practices, your outdoor plant box will become a haven for butterflies, enhancing both your garden’s beauty and biodiversity.