Mother Nature has been propagating Milkweed for centuries with nothing more than fluffy bits of floss to carry the seeds in the breeze to a new location. Where these seeds end up is in fate’s hands. Up until recently this was enough. I’m sure there are myriad reasons that the milkweed species are growing scarce and most of those aren’t in my control either. BUT, we can help Mother Nature with a few extra steps that will ensure a higher germination rate. This will get the milkweed population up and the Monarch’s population will follow. Here are some general instructions for starting milkweed seeds outside. Happy Gardening 🙂
- The seeds from Northern milkweed species need to have been cold stratified to break dormancy. The Southern species are always ready to go.
- Milkweed seeds need 3 main things to germinate: Light, Heat and Moisture. Most of us are in a hurry to get started in the spring but until the ground warms, milkweed seeds will not be in the same hurry.
- Prepare the area that you would like the milkweeds to grow by clearing all other unwanted plants that will block the sun.
- Using a metal rake, scratch and loosen the soil about an inch deep. You may have an easier way in mind. This will keep the seeds from washing away if there’s a heavy rain and make it easier for the roots to grow downward
- Surface sow/scatter the seeds.
- Water gently enough as to not move the seeds into clusters.
- Keep watered until germination is well under way. Since the seeds are on the surface they will dry out quickly.
If you have successfully grown milkweed using the direct sow method, I’d love for you to share your input on what has worked for you. Happy Gardening. 🙂