Milkweed plant is considered as an
unwanted specimen in the landscape and can also be invasive, but they can be
grown in container.
There are over one hundred species
of milkweeds that grow in North America, and not actually all of them are hosts
for the Monarch. Some draw Monarchs for nectar, but butterfly lovers are likely
looking for those plants that encourage the dropping of tiny eggs on them. Let
us take a look at some that are native or naturalized plants and that can grow
successfully in pots;
1. The
tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica): The tropical milkweed has
naturalized in warmer areas of the United State and is a favorite of the
Monarch butterfly. The tropical milkweed has also provides nectar for them and
many other types of butterflies. Those in cooler areas may grow this as an
annual plant, and it may return in protected areas, or reseed. Container grown
plants sport additional branches in their second year and a long bloom period
in summer.
2. The
whorled milkweed (Asclepias verticillata): The whorled milkweed is a larval
host plant that grows in dry or sandy soils, this whorled milkweed is hardy in
USDA zones 4a to 10b. This plant blooms summer through fall and also provides
food for caterpillars as well as adult Monarchs and is a great milkweed in
planters.
3. The
swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnate): The swamp milkweed is “known to be high
up in the Monarchs preference list.” Native to most of the United State, you
will want to include this one if you are attempting to draw butterflies to a
wet area. This specimen does not actually have a taproot, another advantage
for container growing.
4. The
showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa): The showy milkweed flowers are fragrant
and pretty. Best confined to a container because of its invasive tendency.
Grows in western United State to Canada and is equivalent to common milkweed in
the east. The showy milkweed actually needs a 5-gallon or larger container.
How to Grow Milkweed Plant in a
Container
Actually, growing milkweed
plant in pots is the preferable method of growth for some.
Container-grown milkweed plant can be overwintered in a building or garage and
placed back outside in spring. It is advised to combine potted milkweeds plants
with nectar-rich flowers in the same container in other to provide
necessary nourishment to the Monarch and other butterflies. This really
encourages them to return to the area where containers are, so locate them near
a seating area where you can best enjoy them. You can use a large plastic
container for ease of moving and winter storage. You can use a
light-colored one that is deep, as the root systems of the milkweed plants can
grow large. Some of the plants have large taproots. A rich and well-draining
soil encourages the best performance of the milkweed plants. You can easily
start the plant from seed.
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