Contributed photo.

Despite the average temperature so far this month only being 15.4 degrees, now is the time to start planning spring gardens. Horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach recommend including butterfly weed, a low maintenance perennial. Butterfly weed is a member of the milkweed family and plants grow two to three feet tall. The plant produces clusters of bright orange flowers from July through September and the flowers attract several butterfly species.

Butterfly weed performs best in full sun and grows well in a wide range of soils. Once it is established, it has a high tolerance for heat and drought. For more information click here.