Description

“Don’t Judge, Just Grow”

Bring the beauty and ecological benefits of Florida’s native flora to your garden with 125 Florida-Native “Butterfly Needle” Seeds (Bidens alba), carefully sourced from Brevard County, Florida. Also known as Beggarticks, and Romerillo, this versatile and resilient plant is not only a favorite among gardeners but also a vital resource for local wildlife, making it an essential addition to any garden that aims to support pollinators and birds.

Pollinator Powerhouse

Butterfly Needle is a true hero in the garden, boasting extreme usefulness to a wide variety of pollinators, especially butterflies. Its delicate white flowers attract a host of butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, making it a high “Pollinator Density” plant—a term coined by Johnny Butterflyseed to describe plants that support a large number of pollinators at once.

Bird-Friendly Benefits

But that’s not all! The seeds of Bidens alba are a natural food source for birds such as the Red-Bellied Woodpecker. These seeds are perfect for feeding nestlings, and the abundance of pollinators also provides a rich protein source for birds, helping to sustain them throughout the breeding season.

Growing Range and USDA Zones

Butterfly Needle thrives in a variety of climates across North America. Its full useful range extends from USDA Hardiness Zones 7-11, making it suitable for all of the southern United States and beyond.

Planting Instructions

Germination Instructions:

– Pre-Soak: To improve germination, soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.

– Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist, well-drained soil.

– Temperature: Maintain a soil temperature of 70-75°F for best results.

– Germination Time: Seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days.

Direct Casting Instructions:

– Site Preparation: Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Clear the area of weeds and debris.

– Broadcast Seeds: Scatter seeds evenly across the prepared soil.

– Watering: Lightly water the area after casting and keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge.

Care and Maintenance

Butterfly Needle is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal care:

– Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase. Once established, it only needs occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.

– Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

– Area Control: Although Butterfly Needle is resilient, it’s good to keep the area around it free of competitive plants. Butterfly Needles love healthy boundaries, so keep them in a landscaping border.

Culinary Uses

Butterfly Needle isn’t just for the garden—it’s also edible! The young leaves can be sautéed like spinach or used to brew a mild, earthy tea. The petals of the flowers add a splash of color to salads and can also be used to enhance teas.

Why Choose Butterfly Needle?

For just $2, you can plant 125 seeds that will not only beautify your garden but also provide essential resources for local wildlife. Butterfly Needle is a true multitasker: it supports pollinators, feeds birds, and even adds flavor to your kitchen.

Embrace the full potential of your garden with Butterfly Needle seeds. Don’t Judge, Just Grow—and watch as your garden comes alive with the vibrant activity of butterflies, birds, and more!