Monarchs and Milkweed, What Gardeners Need to Know

Roger’s Gardens published an excellent piece on the issues gardeners need to consider when growing milkweed and the health of the monarch population.

Read: Monarchs and Milkweed, What Gardeners Need to Know

I picked the last of my tropical milkweed. Though other years I cut it to the ground in October, the above article convinced me I should remove it completely.

Instead of growing the tropical milkweed I’ll be planting two Asclepias fascicularis purchased at the California Native Plant Society plant sale last weekend. This Narrow-leaf Milkweed is the right choice for my region. The Xerces Society has extensive resources on their page Western Monarch Call to Action. Check out Project Milkweed on the website to find out the best milkweed to grow in your region and tips on growing milkweed from seed. For California gardeners there’s also a PDF Native Milkweed Planting and Establishment in California. Follow the Xerces Society on Instagram @xercessociety

And now join me in removing your tropical milkweed.