Milkweed for Monarchs
Did you know that Milkweed is the most important plant for the Monarch Butterfly? Milkweed is referred to as a “host” plant for the Monarch, meaning their survival is dependent on finding and utilizing these colorful native plants. There are several species of Milkweed native to Ohio including common, butterfly, and swamp milkweed which are all used by the monarch on there annual migration through the region. To promote healthy populations of Monarchs the Ohio Pollinator Habitat Initiative has an annual Milkweed pod collection that runs from October 1 - October 31. Interested Participants are asked to collect Common Milkweed pods from established plants and drop them off at your local Milkweed Pod collection station located at the Madison Soil and Water Conservation District office 831 US Highway 42 NE London, OH 43140.
· When collecting seed pods, it is best to pick them when they are dry and gray or brown in color. If the center seam pops with gentle pressure they are ready to be picked.
· Do not pick pods when they are green. The seeds inside will not be viable.
· Check they are free of disease and mold. Please discard any questionable pods.
· Put collected pods into paper bags or paper grocery sacks. Avoid plastic because of the risk of moisture accumulation.
· Rubber bands and plastic bags can damage the processing equipment. Please ensure these items are not mixed in.
· Please clearly mark the county where pods were collected on each container along with the date of collection.
· Store pods in a cool, dry area until delivered to collection station.
Common Milkweed Collection Drop-Off
1. Gently remove pods from stems.
2. Check they are free of disease and mold. Please discard any questionable pods.
3. Rubber bands and plastic bags can damage the processing equipment. Please ensure these items are not mixed in.
4. Place pods in the collection bin.
5. Celebrate! Ask your SWCD about picking up clean seeds for planting after the collection. Thank you.
