How to Grow Milkweed From Seeds

Milkweed is a delightful plant that produces teardrop-shape pods filled with fluffy seeds that resemble white feathers. Both the dried pods and the seeds can be used in crafts and wreaths and add charm to any natural décor. The milkweed plant is also a host plant for the Monarch butterfly larva, which devours the leaves until they reach maturity and creates a chrysalis where the butterfly develops and emerges in the fall. Growing your own milkweed not only provides ample natural materials for crafts, it attracts and feeds Monarchs as well.

Garden clippers
1-gallon can (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Gather seedpods in late summer or early fall once they have turned brown. Keep in a cool dry place until the pod splits and the seeds are visible. Store in a brown paper bag to catch the seeds once the pod opens.
- 2
  Pull the white fluff from the insides of the pod. Each tuft contains one tiny brown seed attached at the bottom.
- 3
  Remove the fluff from the seeds and plant in prepared garden soil in the spring. Milkweed is not particular with its soil requirements and often grows in ditches along roadsides.
- 4
  Keep the soil moist until seedlings appear and young plants are established. Water only during extreme dry periods or in excessive heat. Milkweed will grow profusely with little care from you.

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