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Milkweed Care Instructions

by Lawson Thalmann

For over 100 years, Chalet has been the trusted go-to destination for Chicagoland gardeners. Our horticultural experts have crafted care instructions with the unique characteristics of our local soil and weather in mind, so that you can feel confident helping your plants flourish.

Planting

Location:


Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil for this perennial. It thrives in open, sunny spaces and is a perfect fit for prairie-style gardens in the Chicago suburbs. Ensure the site is sheltered from strong winds to protect its delicate blooms and attract pollinators effectively.

Spacing:

When planting Butterfly Weed, allow for 12 to 18 inches of space between each plant. This spacing is essential for ensuring adequate air circulation, which helps prevent potential fungal issues. A strong taproot allows this perennial to establish itself firmly, so providing enough room from the start is key.

Watering

Water this perennial deeply but infrequently, especially during its first growing season, to establish a strong root system. Once established, this native plant is wonderfully drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Be cautious not to overwater, as it prefers to be on the drier side.

Fertilizing

In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support vigorous growth and abundant blooms throughout the season. Butterfly Weed is not a heavy feeder, so a light application is sufficient. This plant thrives in lean conditions, and too much fertilizer can encourage leafy growth at the expense of its iconic flowers.

Pruning

In late fall, prune back the spent blooms and any dead foliage to about 6 inches above the ground. This helps maintain a tidy appearance for the winter and encourages healthy new growth in the spring. You can also deadhead spent flowers during the season to encourage continuous blooming.

Mulching

To help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, provide a thin, 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the plant in early spring. This practice also helps regulate soil temperature, which is beneficial for Butterfly Weed. Remember to keep the mulch a few inches away from the crown of the plant to prevent rot.

Milkweed, Common

$9.99

Common Milkweed features showy shell pink flat-top flowers at the ends of the stems in mid summer. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its narrow leaves remain grayish green in color throughout the season.

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Lawson Thalmann

Lawson Thalmann

Vice President, Part-Owner, Sustainability Chair, CTO

Lawson represents the 4th generation of Thalmanns at Chalet. He currently heads up technology and sustainability efforts while also engaging the community through events like meditation and content like blog posts. He is passionate about helping the North Shore community engage with nature as a means for both physical and mental well being. He lives in Wilmette with his wife Kit and two children, Quinn and Lane.

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