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Top Questions About Milkweed Plants

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Questions About Milkweed Plants

  • Answered by
    BushDoctor on
    February 11, 2018
    Certified Expert
    A.

    It would be hard to say, as some cultivars have a longer taproot than others. I would say the tallest container you can find. At least a foot tall, but I would recommend more.

    You can use a regular potting mix, or mix compost in with it. This will be fine.

    Here is an article for more information on growing milkweed: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/milkweed/growing-milkweed.htm

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  • Answered by
    BushDoctor on
    March 4, 2018
    Certified Expert
    A.

    This is hard to deal with when you have creatures that you want to keep alive. I would advise using neem oil in a very low dose to spray the plants. This will make the pests leave, and will not kill your caterpillars. They may not be attracted to your plants for a bit, but they will soon return.

    It can be difficult to control pests when you have other things that you want to stay alive, unfortunately. There is another option that I could recommend though. You can use predator bugs, such as mantis.

    Can you include a photo of the pest? This can help me identify it and possibly recommend the best way to control these.

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  • Answered by
    MichiganDot on
    April 8, 2018
    A.

    Here is an article on milkweed pests that discusses pros and cons of treatments. Mainly, several bugs are not a serious risk to the plant and are to be allowed to endure. Any type of spray will discourage monarchs from laying eggs on your milkweed. https://monarchbutterflygarden.net/stop-milkweed-pests-ruining-milkweed-monarchs/

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  • Answered by
    MichiganDot on
    May 21, 2018
    A.

    Every region of the US has different native milkweeds and the conditions they require vary by type. Here is an article that discusses the milkweeds native to the state. The one that is best for sandy soil is butterfly milkweed. All milkweeds have deep taproots so it is best to put your plant out as soon as possible in a sunny location. https://www.floridanativenurseries.org/info/why-plant-native/save-our-monarchs-plant-native-milkweed/

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  • Answered by
    MichiganDot on
    June 15, 2018
    A.

    The different milkweeds have varying growth rates. Butterfly weed is notorious for being a slow grower and taking 3-4 years to bloom. I think patience is called for. Forming a good taproot is more important than top growth at this stage. Of course, it may be defective and a poor performer; only time will tell. Make sure to keep that taproot watered but not soggy and I would provide some shade on hot days. You can do this with a small yogurt or cottage cheese container or cardboard box with top and bottom removed. Here is a great resource for growing milkweeds from seed. https://monarchbutterflygarden.net/milkweed-plant-seed-resources/asclepias-tuberosa-butterfly-weed/

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  • Answered by
    Downtoearthdigs on
    June 27, 2018
    A.

    Different species of milkweed have different growth strategies, so it depends on what species you have. In general, milkweed may not flower in the first year of growth, because it is investing its resources in growing a strong root system. Also, if there is excess nitrogen in the soil the plant may not flower, so do not fertilize milkweed. Finally, milkweed may not bloom if the plant is stressed, such as by drought or excessive heat. Luckily, monarchs will lay their eggs on milkweed even if it is not flowering! The caterpillars eat the leaves of the plant, so your milkweed can still be a host plant without flowers.

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  • Answered by
    MichiganDot on
    June 28, 2018
    A.

    I found information by doing a search for "fire resistant plants in Nevada Co, California". Other general info follows from CalFire
    http://www.areyoufiresafe.com/files/9413/0083/2949/firewise_plant_booklet_2011_110106.pdf
    http://www.readyforwildfire.org/Fire-Safe-Landscaping/
    http://www.preventwildfireca.org

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  • Answered by
    Downtoearthdigs on
    June 28, 2018
    A.

    As a wildflower, milkweed actually relies on forces of nature for it's seed propagation. In my northern midwest location, the milkweed that grows wild here needs the extremely cold winter in order to germinate. In areas that experience a lot of fire, I know many wildflowers actually rely on the fire for seed their germination. I would guess California milkweeds are the same. After fires have passed they will reseed. I wouldn't worry about the plants, Just the caterpillars, eggs and monarchs. Maybe try a diy butterfly tower in a safe place to rear caterpillars

    blog.gardeningknowhow.com/gardening-diy/do-it-yourself-butterfly-tower/

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