When to Plant a Butterfly Bush?

When to plant a butterfly bush: the best timing and tips

Why choose a butterfly bush?

The butterfly bush, or Buddleja, is beloved by both people and butterflies. Its striking flower clusters attract all sorts of pollinators and create a vibrant, colorful garden. Moreover, this shrub is surprisingly low-maintenance, making it ideal for beginner gardeners.

A butterfly bush grows quickly, continues to bloom until late summer, and thrives in a variety of soil types. Whether you have a small city garden or a spacious outdoor area, there's a suitable Buddleja for every garden.

Early preparation: what does a butterfly bush need?

Before planting, it's best to consider the right location. Butterfly bushes prefer full sun but can also tolerate light shade. Make sure the soil is well-draining, as stagnant water is detrimental to the roots.

Do you have a spot in your garden where the sun shines for at least half the day and the soil isn't too clayey? Then you're already in good hands. Give your soil an extra boost by mixing in some perlite or coconut husk for better aeration and drainage.

When to plant a butterfly bush?

Plants in open ground

The best time to plant a butterfly bush in the ground is in spring, from March through the end of May. This minimizes the risk of frost, giving your bush enough time to establish roots before summer. A partly cloudy or rainy day is ideal, as it prevents the young roots from immediately struggling to dry out.

You can also plant in the fall, from September to the end of October. Do this during a mild period, without night frost. This gives the plant just enough time to settle in before winter sets in. Remember to protect young shrubs well from severe frost in the first year.

Planting a butterfly bush in a greenhouse or pot

In a greenhouse or conservatory, you can start a little earlier, even as early as February, as long as daytime temperatures are around 10-12°C. In a pot in a sheltered spot, the plant can establish roots earlier, but wait to put it outside until there is no longer any risk of night frost.

For pots, use an airy mix with adequate drainage. Our special potting soil for outdoor plants is ideal, especially when combined with hydroponic grains at the bottom to prevent wet feet.

When is the best time to buy a butterfly bush?

It's best to buy a butterfly bush just before the planting season, so in March or April. Most garden centers and plant shops will have a wide selection of young plants that can be planted out immediately. Pay attention to the root ball: it should be firm, with healthy white roots and free of moldy odors.

Want to combine it with other flowering or butterfly-friendly plants? Consider the Calathea Triostar for indoors, or the colorful Aglaonema Flamingo , a beautiful houseplant that also attracts butterflies if you place it outside temporarily during the warmer months.

How do you plant the butterfly bush?

Dig a large planting hole, about twice as wide as the root ball. Mix some compost and potting soil into the soil and water generously. Place the root ball in the hole so that the top is just level with the rest of the soil. Fill it with water and press it down lightly.

Water thoroughly immediately, even if you planted on a rainy day. For the first few weeks, keep the soil slightly moist, but not soaked.

Combine with other plants

Butterfly bushes look stunning next to ornamental grasses, lavender, or perennials. Looking for something compact for pots or on the balcony? A Chinese Money plant is incredibly easy to care for and fun for kids, too.

Or choose robust houseplants, like the ZZ plant or Yucca , to complement your conservatory or indoor garden. These stars will thrive even if you forget to water them for a moment.

When do you prune a butterfly bush?

It's best to prune the butterfly bush in early March, just before the first growth spurts. Cut back old branches to about 30 cm above the ground. This promotes bushy growth and ensures abundant flowering in summer.

Note: Don't prune too late in the spring, as this can delay or even reduce flowering. A fresh start makes all the difference.

Want to know more about plants and flowering times?

Want to know when's the best time to plant other plants? Then be sure to check out our other seasonal blogs about planting flowers in the garden , or when it's time to plant flower bulbs and asters in the ground.

Just started gardening? No problem. In our collection of easy houseplants for beginners, you'll find plants that will last a long time, even without a green thumb. Don't forget handy tools like our plant sprayer or dusting glove to keep your plants fresh.

Ready for a fluttering garden?

A well-timed planting of your butterfly bush will provide months of enjoyment. It's a feasible and rewarding project, especially if you love life in your garden.

Whether you're a complete plant enthusiast or already have some experience, the butterfly bush is perfect for any type of garden, conservatory, or conservatory-like balcony. Give it some love and some sun, and you'll be rewarded with butterflies all summer long.

Browse our selection of outdoor plants or pop into our store in Leuven. Together, we'll turn your garden into a butterfly paradise!