when do butterfly bushes start to bud

Butterfly bushes typically start to bud and begin blooming in early to midsummer. The buds form on new growth that emerges in spring after winter dormancy. Blooming usually continues through summer and into fall until the first frost. The exact timing of bud formation and blooming can depend on the growing zone and local weather conditions. For example, after a harsh winter or cool spring, the buds might not show until June or even early July, with full bloom and butterfly attraction peaking by early August. Proper pruning in late winter or early spring helps encourage blooms by promoting new wood growth where buds develop. Butterfly bushes need plenty of sun (at least 6 hours daily) and well-drained soil to bloom well. They generally do not bud until summer in most regions, so buds do not appear in early spring but rather closer to summer.