I CAN’T believe there’s an R in the month already and that we’re into autumn. However, once the nights become chilly, I will be comforted by memories of this year’s wonderful lockdown spring and some super summer days full of butterflies and bees. The small tortoiseshells – the males and females of which look the same – were everywhere in June, flashing their blue, orange and black wings as they visited flowers in the garden.
The small tortoiseshell is one of my favourite butterflies and you’re likely to see it throughout Britain, in town and country, because it relies on an abundantly common food plant. Like many Latin butterfly names, Aglais urticae provides a clue as to what the small tortoiseshell caterpillars feed on. They feed on nettles, including the common stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) and the small nettle (Urtica urens). The common hop (Humulus lupulus) is also used as a food source on occasions.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
To dig or not to dig?
Should we be carrying out a full dig on plots now? Bob considers the pros and cons of the 'autumn dig' debate
The box ball blues
As if his beleaguered box hadn't already taken a beating, Toby now has to deal with some hungry box caterpillars
Save your own seeds
Masterclass on: seed saving
Strange sightings
Three unusual insects turn up in Val's garden in one day
A bolt from the blue!
Cornflowers are perfect for garden and vase
Winter moth prevention
Ruth shows you how to avoid maggoty tree fruits
Create a winter container
There are as many options as in summer
Lightweight gardening tools
AS well as being good for our mental health, gardening is also great exercise.
Autumn price round-up
AG finds better bargains in lesser-known brands
Rudbeckias
Rudbeckias are ideal for sunny summer patios and borders, with some able to survive our coldest winters