Grow a garden filled with this specialty blend of “Autumn Blaze” Milkweed from fresh Asclepias species flower seeds. Autumn Blaze will produce beautiful clusters of pink, yellow, orange and white flowers. The plants themselves grow to a mature height of about 30 to 40 inches tall. Milkweed is known for attracting an array of beneficial insects such as bumblebees, lady bugs, hummingbirds and most importantly the endangered Monarch butterfly. Asclepias is grown as a perennial flowering plant that returns each year from it’s deeply established root system.
Asclepias is very important to the Monarch butterfly as it is categorized as a host plant. The caterpillars will enjoy it’s large, tender leaves and adult Monarchs, as well as many other butterflies look to it for it’s rich source of nectar. This mixture of Milkweed can be grown with other varieties such as the Showy Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed & Butterfly Milkweed.
Monarch butterflies occupied much of North America in the many years prior to 2015. Recently, studies have shown that their numbers have dwindled by nearly 96% over the decades, leaving them hanging on the edge of endangerment. This migratory species is exposed to numerous threats along it’s pilgrimage, but the number one threat it faces is the decrease in Milkweed plants available.
Purchase Asclepias seeds now to help prevent any further decline in the Monarch population. Together we can all help to increase the number of these lovely orange & black creatures that so many of us adore.
Quick Facts
- Type: Flower
- Color: Mixture
- Height: 30″ to 40″ Tall
- Width: 20″ to 24″ Spread
- Season: Perennial
- Zones: 3 to 9
- Environment: Full Sun
Sowing The Seed
Asclepias flower seeds will need to go through a process of stratification for successful germination. Place your seed packet in the fridge for roughly 3 to 6 weeks prior to sowing.
Asclepias seeds are best sown indoors, where the environmental conditions can be maintained for optimal growth. Sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost, at a shallow depth of 1/16” under topsoil. The seeds will require light to germinate, so it is crucial that you do not cover the seeds with much dirt. Transplant or direct sow outdoors when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Asclepias plants will enjoy an area that receives full sunlight for the majority of the day. They tend to thrive best in rich, well draining soils. It is recommended to mix any hard, compact soil, with a light compost for better drainage. Water the seeds daily to ensure that the soil is kept moist until germination has occurred. Avoid overwatering as this can cause wilting in the roots and plant life.
Germination & Growth
Milkweed seeds will be slow to germinate, taking anywhere from 14 to 28 days to sprout. The plants will reach a mature height of around 30 to 40 inches tall and can be spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. Once established, they will attract an array of beneficial insects to the garden, such as bumblebees, butterflies, honeybees and hummingbirds. But most importantly, Milkweed will attract the monarch butterfly, because it is considered it’s major food source.
You can always use the Xerces Milkweed seed finder for additional varieties of Milkweed that we do not carry ourselves.