The most common question we hear is “How do I start?” Creating habitat for monarchs is actually quite easy! The basic things you need are 1) space for nectar plants and milkweed, and 2) a toxin-free environment. And those basic things are good for more than just monarchs, they’re great for all plants and animals, the air, soil, and water around them, and the people who love them!
But the strategies for creating monarch habitat differ a bit based on what type of setting you’re in. The resources below are divided in to categories to help you efficiently explore approaches suited to your situation.
Looking for native plant sales in Wisconsin? Check out the list here.
These informational handouts are great for anyone interested in learning more about and supporting monarch butterflies.
Curious about monarchs? Watch this wonderful presentation by Dr. Karen Oberhauser, Aug. 20, 2025
Small lots can have a big impact! Creating habitat for monarchs in city landscaping including at homes, business, and city parks, can offer essential nectar, shelter, and egg-laying resources for monarchs and all pollinators. Learn more about how you can help here.
Wisconsin prides itself in its agricultural values and farmers who spend their careers stewarding the land. There is great potential for adding monarch habitat to agricultural settings without sacrificing income and crop production. Learn more about how you can help here.
The sprawling native prairies and gorgeous savannas of Wisconsin play an important role in supporting tremendous diversity of native wildlife – including monarch butterflies. Learn how large-scale seeding and restoration work can be tweaked for added benefit to monarchs.
There is tremendous potential for installing monarch habitat along utility easements and roadways. However, this can be a complicated balance of public safety, maintenance requirements and providing high quality habitat. These resources help energy and transportation personnel hone in on what can be done, and where to focus efforts.
For a comprehensive list of resources about monarchs, including information about their biology, threats, and a full list of national events please visit Monarch Joint Venture.
