Enjoy a summer evening admiring native butterflies and blossoms at Ladew Topiary Gardens. See the life cycle of their butterflies, from eggs through chrysalis, in Ladew’s all-native Butterfly House. Their butterflies are gently netted by Ladew staff and trained volunteers on the grounds and placed inside to complete their life cycles for all to see. We will also stroll on the paths through the native meadow, looking for host plants, eggs, and caterpillars. We’ll discuss how the plants are selected by the gardeners, and how they form an optimal habitat for catching butterflies. We will learn more about host plants in the Butterfly House, where each preferred host plant is identified using comprehensive signage, explaining each plant’s growth requirements.
Ladew Gardens is open until 7 pm, and participants are welcome to check out the rest of the property once they finish in the Butterfly House. This tour is made possible by the partnership of NHSM and our Lep Club with Ladew Gardens. Check out our exhibit during Ladew’s popular Garden Glow event in October.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
- All ages welcome.
- Wear closed-toe shoes for walking on the mown and gravel paths.
- Bring water, it may be hot.
- Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- No pets, please.
- All events are held rain or shine. If any event is cancelled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within seven days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $10 or less are not refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.