Don't have poison oak, but plenty of poison ivy. Luckily, I am not allergic, but my youngest son is. He was engulfed by smoke from a burn which included poison ivy. Was scarry. West gardener, I am sorry that your son is suffering from that stuff.

Thanks. This season my 5 and 2 year old have been helping me raise some monarchs and black swallowtails. This is my first time raising them as well, so we're all learning a lot in the process...like how to ID milkweed and that I need to plant lots more fennel and carrots next season. :) We are all much more excited about getting out and seeing what we can discover. I think they're learning a healthy respect and appreciation of nature. I can't think of a more fun way for us to spend our summer together. Thanks to everyone for answering so many of my questions here and for posting such great pictures and questions of your own. I learn something new every time I check in. This is a great resource! Kim Here is a link that might be useful: My garden and caterpillars

junglegal, all my property is high ground. The area that you see here and another,the chenille are planted in well drain areas and they are in shade,doing great. I have another area that is full sun and dry soil where I also have chenille planted and ,also do very well. Here is the one in full sun,below. Silvia,thank you,I'll tell him. Remember you and Willy are very welcome to come. Felix

Wow!! I just posted in your 2nd posting about how much I love your perennial bed - DITTO!!! Lovely!! Carol