Milkweed is the only host plant for monarch butterflies. It is where they lay their eggs and where their caterpillars grow. Photo: Angie Lueschen
Planting milkweed (Asclepias) is a simple, yet impactful, way to strengthen and support pollinator health right in your own backyard. Don’t worry, milkweed isn’t a weed at all. It is a native plant species considered important for supporting monarch caterpillars, as well as a wide variety of pollinators, including bats, bees, beetles, birds, butterflies, flies and moths. These pollinators are responsible for pollinating approximately 75 percent of the world’s flowering plants and nearly 35 percent of global food crops. Popular Minnesota milkweed species include Butterfly Weed, Common, Showy, Swamp and Whorled. Look for them at any native plant store.
Angie Lueschen is a plant-loving enthusiast and member of the Lakeville Area Garden Club.
