Brenda Dziedzic is a gardener whose life changed when she became interested in butterflies. She is now an expert on the subject of raising Lepidopteran species and has won numerous awards for her work. Among her many awards and honours are Master Gardener of the Year and a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives. Her garden has also been designated a Butterfly Habitat. She lectures widely and is a media personality on TV and radio.
[Review of previous edition: ] An indispensable reference book that should be in every naturalists' library... In this fantastic book we get a brief introduction to the author, who has been successful at raising over 5,000 butterflies... The pictures in this book are phenomenal and it is what sets this book apart from most of the other books of its type out there. They are all in full color and are crystal clear. It is so nice to see the eggs of these butterflies and moths in such detail and I have always believed that the ultimate field guide should have pictures of every stage of the caterpillars growth, especially since in many species they differ so much from instar to instar. I honestly feel that Brenda Dziedzic has now set the bar on how books on butterflies and moths should be presented. Though the text may be minimal, what is captured in the photos makes this a reference work that amateurs and professionals can both use, over and over again. This is a good size book, clocking in at 336 pages and is the perfect size to have with you out in the garden as you try to identify your visitors or to bring with you to the local nursery.--David Albaugh ""Dave the Bug Guy blog"" (1/26/2020 12:00:00 AM) [Review of previous edition: ] Dziedzic's detailed guide... Is written for both amateurs and more experienced butterfly gardeners, breaking down in great detail which plants attract roughly 40 species of butterflies and moths, including swallowtails, brushfoots, skippers and silk moths. It also maps out the life cycle of each species.--Maureen Feighan ""Detroit News"" (9/12/2019 12:00:00 AM) [Review of previous edition: ] I appreciated all the tips she shares on how to attract butterflies to your backyard. And why it is important to plant both nectar and host plants. She also shares how to create your own butterfly nursery... If you like butterflies, you will enjoy this book.-- ""The River Blog"" (11/12/2020 12:00:00 AM) [Review of previous edition: ] I recommend this book to people who would like to learn more about butterflies and are looking for a go-to guide for identification at all life stages. The photography makes this a fantastic book to identify what you are seeing outside or to simply learn more about each species. It is a great first book for readers interested in planning pollinator gardens, a launching pad for further exploration into local flora and fauna.--Tianna Burke ""The Canadian Field Naturalist"" (9/1/2020 12:00:00 AM) [Review of previous edition: ] Master Gardener Brenda Dziedzic has a 60-ft by 120-ft garden in Michigan, but has 30 different species of butterflies and moths visiting her yard! Her book is full of informative photos that provide detailed information about every aspect of the wide range of butterflies and moths.-- ""Niagara Escarpment Views"" (3/1/2020 12:00:00 AM) [Review of previous edition: ] Readers looking to create compatible environments for specific butterfly populations will find Raising Butterflies in the Garden a treasure trove of specifics packed with maps, close-up color photos, and how-to advice.--Diane Donovan ""Donovan's Literary Services"" (1/1/2020 12:00:00 AM) [Review of previous edition: ] This book makes it easy for even beginner naturalists and gardeners to attract butterflies to their gardens. Featuring over 500 photos of butterflies in all stages of their life cycle, this book has something of interest for adults and children alike. Readers will learn which native host plants attract specific species of caterpillars as well as which nectar sources are preferred by each caterpillar's inevitable butterfly. Hobbyists to Master Gardeners can glean information from this excellent resource.--Julie Traveglini ""Green Teacher Magazine"" (3/29/2021 12:00:00 AM) [Review of previous edition: ] This scientific guide to nurturing a butterfly-friendly garden is written in a very clear and accessible style and the author's passion and expertise come alive on every page... The text is reader-friendly and informative... After reading her book, I am motivated to do more to help butterflies thrive around our home. It's really not that hard, no matter the season or size of a property, and the rewards are truly a delight.--Sally Peterson ""The Oregonian"" (12/8/2019 12:00:00 AM)