Nature is all around us — even at home. Make part of a yard at home or school into a wildlife garden.

Keep your local habitat in mind when planning a wildlife garden. If you live in Arizona or New Mexico, for example, a desert garden makes much more sense than a temperate forest.

Decide first what wildlife you want to attract. Then plan your plants accordingly. If you want Monarch butterflies, for example, you'll have to plant milkweed, because that's what Monarchs' caterpillars eat. Other butterflies' caterpillars like tall grasses. These include the Prairie Skipper, the Wood Nymph, and the Fiery Skipper butterflies.

Native plants are best. A local nursery, botanical society, or college agricultural extension program can give you suggestions. Native plants encourage native animals to flock to your garden. That can partly “restore” an area's ecological balance — even in a built-up neighborhood.

Get your plants from a local nursery or swap plants with a friend. Don't just go dig up wild plants. The idea is to add to natural beauty — not to rip it up. Also, if you dug up an endangered species, you could be committing a crime!

With luck, you'll be able to include plants that flower from early spring through late fall. Some plants, like sunflowers, even do double duty. During summer, the bright flowers' nectar attracts bees and butterflies. During fall, the seed heads are a tasty treat for goldfinches and other birds.

Don't “weed” your garden. After all, you want it to grow naturally. But do take care of it. If there's a drought, make sure the plants get enough water.

Avoid using pesticides in your wildlife garden. Rely instead on nature's own system of checks and balances. Yes, aphids are pesky sapsuckers. But give ladybugs a chance, and they'll control the aphids without harmful chemicals.

A feeder helps attract birds to any garden. Mount it on a metal pole to keep squirrels from stealing the bird food. Once you start stocking a bird feeder, be sure to keep it up. Birds in the area will rely on you! In return, watch their antics as they enjoy the seed and suet you share with them.

Your wildlife garden can be a beautiful nature spot. Enjoy planning it and spending time there.