Milkweed Seeds

Plant Milkweed: Sow milkweed seeds ¼ in. deep in 2 in. pots or cell packs. At 65-70°F, germination is within 14-21 days. Transplant seedlings into the garden 12-18 in. apart, well before seedlings become root bound. Can direct sow into prepared seed beds in groups of 3-4 seeds, spaced 1-2 ft. apart. Thin to the strongest plant.

Grow Milkweed: Full sun. Asclepias incarnata (Soulmate) thrives in moist, even wet soils, will adapt to average garden water. Asclepias tuberosa (Orange and Gay Butterflies) and Asclepias speciosa (Showy Milkweed) tolerate heat and drought, need only occasional water once established, will happily accept average moisture with good drainage.
Milkweeds attract bees and hummingbirds, are important nectar sources for a wide range of pollinators and provide essential nourishment for monarch butterfly larva. Plants are deer and rabbit resistant. Pinch seedlings to encourage more flowering stems per plant.
Use caution when working with Asclepias incarnata and Asclepias speciosa: the milky sap is toxic and can cause skin irritation. Caterpillars feeding on these milkweeds become toxic to birds and other predators. Asclepias tuberosa does not have toxic milky sap.