How to Plant Butterfly Milkweed Roots

When to Plant Butterfly Milkweed Roots

Plant your Butterfly Milkweed Roots in the Spring, as soon as the soil is workable and the danger of frost has passed.

Where to Plant Butterfly Milkweed Roots

Choose a location in full sun, in a sandy loam that stays relatively dry and well-draining. Add compost or peat humus to enrich and loosen the soil if needed, but they are very adaptable to almost any soil conditions provided it dries out thoroughly between watering. Remember to keep the soil light and airy for perennials, so cover them with loose soil and don't pack it in after planting.

How to Plant Butterfly Milkweed Roots

Plant about 15 to 18" apart, Plant with the top of the tap root about 1/2" to 1" below soil level. After planting and watering in lightly and the root should not be showing.

How to Care for your Butterfly Milkweed

Once established, they are extremely drought tolerant and very long lived. They are an excellent nectar source for adult butterflies and larvae. These roots can be transplanted when dormant, however, because of their deep tap roots they may be difficult to move without damaging the root system. As such, propagation is best done by seed.