Brugie is right.
You need to have..............
( 1.) Nectar flowers to feed the adults ...................... http://www.nsis.org/butterfly/butterfly-plants-nectar.html
(2.) Host plants for the babies ........ http://www.nsis.org/butterfly/butterfly-plants-larval.html
(3.) if possible get a very large plastic plant saucer full of sand which is kept damp for them to get the moisture from.
these 3 things make a true butterfly garden.
Keep them happy and the should leave the other plants alone.
Good Luck
Mite question
For whoever mentioned Messenger: Brian Steinwand of OSU told me that Messenger will help with diseases , not bugs. I would not hesitate to use my systemic except now I read on it that it is for outdoor use only. I would still use it because I am puting so little on but they are in my bedroom. I don't want to be gassed.
I purchased some neem oil today which OSU said would be the most effective against bugs but it also said you have to directly apply it to the bugs. Well, how do you do that if you don't see them.
I am contemplating mixing up a large bowl of it and turning each plant upside down and swishing it in the mix.
Jeanette
I believe what Messenger is supposed to do is help the plant become more healthy so that it can fight bugs off on it's own, at least somewhat. The messenger itself is not for bugs, you are right.
The systemic I bought last week is for indoor plants. I'll get you some before I come over if you want. Let me know. It wasn't all that expensive either.
Robin
Robin,
Don't bring it on the plane. If you handcarry they might make you drink it and if it is an aerosol and in your luggage it might explode. I'll see if I can get it here. mom