Milkweed Seeds Update

The Ohio Pollinator Habitat Initiative from last fall resulted in approximately 2,500 gallons of milkweed pods collected throughout the state. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this effort in Warren County! 

Over the winter the milkweed pods were delivered to Department of Corrections Institutions where the seeds were collected from the pods and placed in cold storage. This process improves the germination of the seeds. Once this process was complete, the seeds were distributed back to Warren County and to the other districts who participated in the initiative. 

For those with a packet, follow the planting guide below:

Planting time: February - April  OR  September - November
If you wish to plant the seed in the spring, you will need to stratify the seed. To stratify the seed, place a thin layer of seed between damp paper towels and place it in a refrigerator for approximately 40 days. If you plant the seeds in the fall, seed stratification is not necessary.
Site selection: Sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Prepare soil: Remove weeds and rake to 1'' deep.
Spread seeds: Uniformly cover the cleared area.
Press seeds: Walk over newly planted area.
Do not cover seeds any deeper than 1/16''. Some of the seeds will remain visible.
Water: Regularly for 4-6 weeks for germination.
Watch: Reduce watering at 2'' tall, unless the seedlings seem stressed.

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Common Milkweed. Photo Credit: Anita Gould, Flickr Creative Commons