A Call to Action: Saving Our Silky Friends and Their Hungry Caterpillars
As the vibrant hues of spring paint our gardens, a battle often ensues between gardeners and the voracious caterpillars feasting on their precious plants. But here's a twist: it's time to rethink our approach and embrace these caterpillars, for they hold the key to the survival of our beloved moths.
The Plight of the Moths
Moth populations across the UK are in freefall, with a staggering 33% decline since the 1960s. This crisis is a result of habitat loss, climate breakdown, and pollution. Charities like the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and The Wildlife Trusts are sounding the alarm, urging us to take action.
Caterpillar Carnage: A Necessary Evil?
Traditionally, gardeners have viewed caterpillars as pests, but the RHS is advocating for a more relaxed attitude. For treasured plants, they suggest pesticide-free methods like manual removal, physical barriers, and pruning. It's a delicate balance, but one that can support the recovery of moth populations.
The Importance of Moths and Their Caterpillars
Moths are not just beautiful creatures in their own right; they are a vital food source for other garden wildlife, including birds, mammals, and larger insects. And their caterpillars? Well, they come in all shapes and sizes, from the conspicuous green giants to the masters of camouflage that resemble twigs or bird droppings.
A World of Wonderful Moths
The transformation of these caterpillars into moths is nothing short of magical. Take, for instance, the pink and green elephant hawk moth, or the lunar hornet moth, a clever wasp impersonator. And let's not forget the striking Jersey tiger moth, a species becoming more common in the UK as our climate heats up.
Nibbling on Ornamentals: A Small Price to Pay
Caterpillars need a lot of energy to undergo this remarkable transformation, and the RHS asks gardeners to be understanding, allowing for some nibbling on ornamental and vegetable crops. After all, a little damage is a small price to pay for the biodiversity and beauty these creatures bring to our gardens.
Planting for a Caterpillar-Friendly Garden
To support a diverse range of caterpillars, the charity suggests planting native trees and shrubs like willow, honeysuckle, foxgloves, and more. These plants not only provide food for caterpillars but also create a haven for other wildlife.
The Beauty of Moths Up Close
Vicki Hird, an insect expert at The Wildlife Trusts, describes moths as stunning and beautiful by nature. From the exquisitely painted merveille du jour to the casually elegant white ermine, moths are a wonder to behold. A simple moth trap, she suggests, is a wonderful way to appreciate these creatures up close before releasing them back into the wild.
Caterpillar-Friendly Planting Recommendations
- Foxgloves: A food source for several moth species, including the lesser yellow underwing and angle shades moth.
- Lady's bedstraw: This native wildflower provides nourishment for hummingbird hawk-moths, elephant hawk-moths, and bedstraw hawk-moths.
- Mullein: These tall, drought-resistant plants are a favorite of the mullein moth's brightly striped caterpillars.
- Mint: A food source for the mint moth and beautiful plume moth, and a treat for bees too!
- Hedges: A mixed native hedge with hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, and dog rose offers food for a multitude of caterpillars.
So, are you ready to embrace the caterpillar carnage and support our moth populations? It's time to rethink our relationship with these creatures and create gardens that buzz with life and beauty.
