Home & Garden

Gomphocarpus physocarpus (aka “hairy balls” milkweed). The author grows this tropical species and cuts it back each fall to discourage a parasite that attacks monarchs. She has bagged some of the balls to save its seeds. Penny Pawl photo

Butterfly season brings hope to Napa Valley gardens

Every morning when I venture into my garden for my daily walk-through, I hope I will see the golden wings of a monarch butterfly. Occasionally I am lucky, but at this time of year, they are not laying eggs on my milkweed. They are just passing through on their journey to their summer breeding grounds. When they return […]

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