Where does milkweed grow best?
Most milkweed species evolved in open areas where they were exposed to full sunlight and they will do best if they are planted in the sunniest areas of your gardens. A few species, such as A. purpurascens, appear to require partial shade.
Does milkweed grow wild?
Milkweeds are an excellent choice for a habitat garden. At the big box stores you may find seed or plants of tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) (pictured above), but this is not native to most of N. America (a handful of places in California, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida are the exceptions).
Do I cut back milkweed in the fall?
It is recommended to prune the milkweed stalks to about 6 inches in height during the fall and winter months to discourage monarchs from establishing winter-breeding colonies. Cutting back the milkweed will also help to eliminate OE spores that may be present on the plant.
How do you keep milkweed blooming?
Deadhead milkweed flowers to prolong blooming during summer. At the end of the season, allow the plants to form those attractive pods that look great in dried-flower arrangements. Silky, parachute-like seeds will begin to drift out of the mature pods in late fall.
Do milkweed plants need full sun?
Light: Young Milkweed plants need plenty of diffuse light as they grow. Plant in full sun locations. Common Milkweed grows well in average garden soil. Swamp Milkweed, as its name implies, will do best in a moist environment, making it great for wet meadows or rain gardens.
Can milkweed survive in pots?
How to Grow Milkweed in a Pot. Growing milkweed in containers is the preferable method of growth for some. Container grown milkweed can be overwintered in a building or garage and placed back outside in spring.
What can I plant next to milkweed?
A few companion plants that come to mind include Joe Pye weed (Eupatorium maculatum), cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica), coneflower (Echinacea), Mexican sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia), bergamot (Monarda), goldenrod (Solidago), ironweed (Vernonia), and various asters.
Does milkweed hurt other plants?
Since many milkweed species serve as host plant for caterpillars and nectar source for butterflies, milkweeds also make good companion plants for each other. Tropical milkweed can also be potted annually and moved around to complement the butterfly weed.