How to grow milkweed from a seed

When growing milkweed from seeds that you collected, you can do one of two options.  The first option is to start them in the fridge. You can spread out the seeds on a damp paper towel with or without sand on it.  Then fold the towels and place them in a ziplock bag and put them in the fridge in a location where they will remain relatively undisturbed. Leave them there for a few months. This process is called cold stratification*. Then, spread out the seeds on a large tray and sprinkle them with a quarter of an inch of dirt.  Water them regularly. The second option is to just repeatedly scatter seed pods around an area or plant them in the fall and water it carefully until some plants hold. 

Cold stratification information and guidelines from Save our Monarchs Foundation: visit for more detailed step by step instructions

https://www.saveourmonarchs.org/blog/its-time-to-start-cold-stratifying-your-milkweed-seeds

*The milkweed seeds from the Medford Farmers Market have already been cold stratified. They just need to be planted soon before they start to sprout.

How to transplant milkweed

When your seedlings have gained their second set of leaves, you can transplant them. Carefully dig up the plants and  fully submerge the root below the soil. Cover it up further and compact the dirt to give the new plant stability.  Continue to water regularly.  Don't keep milkweed seedlings in pots for too long since they spread through their roots and will become crowded. 

Where to plant your milkweed

Plant your milkweed as soon as possible. It will do best in partial shade to full sun in a relatively undisturbed corner of your yard where you don't plan on having a controlled garden. Expect your milkweed to spread through its roots and seeds and take over the space you have given it and surrounding areas. After you plant it, water your milkweed daily for at least a year to allow it to establish itself.