Milkweed – Bring Back The Monarchs

With the decline in Monarch Butterflies, people are turning to Milkweed to repopulate the Monarch species. Milkweed is a perennial flower that typically blooms in late summer. Although considered a weed by many, this plant does in fact have a beautiful bloom and is necessary, weed or not, to keep the Monarch species alive.

Blooms can range from pink to purple to orange. This plant can grow up to six feet tall in some cases, so think carefully about where you want to plant it. I once put a plant in a small flower bed with a Butterfly Bush, and quickly realized that planting these two competing large plants next to one another was a bad idea. Try a spot that you think will work and if it doesn’t, just transplant.

Milkweed is the host plant for Monarchs and plays a huge role in reproduction. The adult butterflies lay eggs on Milkweed and the caterpillars that hatch then feed on the plant. There are many varieties of Milkweed that vary in size, color, and shape. One of the more popular varieties is the native Butterfly Milkweed. This variety has a beautiful orange bloom and will attract all types of butterflies. Some experts have said that if you want to really draw the Monarchs in, you should try planting a tropical variety of Milkweed. Tropical Milkweed grows quickly and is easy to sow. Check with your local seed or plant supplier to find out which variety will work best for you.

Help repopulate the Monarch species. Plant Milkweed!