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Want to grow milkweed?
It’s easier than you think!
Try these 6 simple tactics to help your milkweed thrive. Perfect for attracting butterflies and beautifying your garden.
Let’s explore these tips together!
Pick the Perfect Spot
First things first, milkweed loves the sun. Find a sunny spot in your garden that gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day.
Also, make sure the soil is well-drained. Milkweed isn’t picky about soil types, so you can plant it almost anywhere as long as it’s sunny and not too wet.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about your soil, consider getting a soil test to make sure it’s up to milkweed’s standards.
Choose the Right Variety
Did you know there are different types of milkweed? Common milkweed, swamp milkweed, and butterfly weed are some popular ones.
Depending on where you live, some varieties will thrive better than others. Local nurseries can give you the best advice on which type to plant.
And remember, having a variety can attract more butterflies!
Planting Time
Spring or fall are the best times to plant milkweed. If you’re planting seeds, gently poke them into the soil about 1/4 inch deep.
If you’re using seedlings, dig a hole big enough for the roots, place the seedling in, and cover with soil. Water it well and give it some love.
That’s it, you’re good to go.
Water Wisely
In the beginning, you’ll need to water your milkweed regularly to help it establish roots. Once it’s grown a bit, it becomes pretty drought-tolerant and can fend for itself.
Just keep an eye on it during really dry spells and give it some extra water if it looks thirsty.
Keep an Eye Out for Pests
Milkweed can sometimes attract aphids and other pests. Don’t panic!
A simple spray of water can knock those little guys off. Just aim the hose at the affected areas and give them a good spray.
If that doesn’t work, you can use insecticidal soap. But remember, you don’t want to harm the caterpillars that will one day be butterflies!
Enjoy the Butterflies
One of the best parts of growing milkweed is watching the butterflies it attracts. Monarchs and other butterfly species love milkweed, and you’ll get a front-row seat to the incredible process of caterpillars turning into butterflies.
Grab a lawn chair, a cold drink, and enjoy the show!