Description
Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) – Planting & Care Guide
- Hardiness: Perennial, USDA zones 3–9; essential host for monarch caterpillars.
- Light: Full sun (6–8+ hrs).
Soil
- Type: Well-drained loam/sandy loam; tolerates poor soils.
- pH: 6.0–7.5. Avoid soggy sites.
- Notes: Spreads by rhizomes; choose a spot it can naturalize.
Planting
- Timing: Plant bare-root/plugs in spring or early fall.
- Spacing: 18–24 in (45–60 cm).
- Depth: Set crown at soil level; firm and water in.
- Taproot: Dislikes disturbance—transplant once and leave in place.
From seed
- Cold stratify 30–60 days (moist chill in fridge) for best germination.
- Sow outdoors in fall or very early spring, or start indoors after stratification at 70°F (21°C).
- Sow 1/4 in (6 mm) deep; germination 10–20+ days.
Water
- Keep evenly moist first season; drought tolerant once established. Water deeply during prolonged dry spells.
Feeding
- Not heavy feeders. Mix in compost at planting; no high-nitrogen fertilizer needed.
Care
- Mulch lightly (1–2 in/2.5–5 cm), keeping mulch off stems.
- Cut back dead stems in late fall or early spring.
- Expect self-seeding; remove pods if control is desired.
Containers
- Not ideal due to deep taproot; if needed, use a very deep pot with excellent drainage.
Pests/Diseases
- Generally resilient. Aphids common—use strong water spray, avoid insecticides (harmful to monarchs).
- Sap is toxic; wear gloves if sensitive. Pets/livestock should not ingest.
Wildlife note
- Plant in clusters; avoid pesticides to support monarchs and other pollinators
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.