Normally the last thing you want to see on any plant are shredded leaves. But in this case, the nibbled foliage on Asclepias syriaca or Common Milkweed is a relief. Like finally. It's so good to see some sign of Monarch butterfly activity after the slow start of summer.
Last week myself and a few fellow Master Gardeners found a caterpillar working on a milkweed plant. And today I spied noticeable evidence of munching upon a stand of milkweed around Lake Calhoun.
Monarch caterpillar perusing milkweed
For quite a few weeks the word among gardeners was "where are the Monarchs?". We know they are threatened with habitat destruction in their overwintering spot in the fragile forests of Mexico. And we know the crux of survival throughout their migration is the same in another way. Milkweed is more often eradicated than encouraged.
Munched-upon milkweed foliage
In some minds milkweed is just that, a weed. In worst case scenarios it's considered an invasive to noxious weed. While others know it's a dwindling and vital resource for the Monarch butterfly.
Although you may see the brilliant and beautiful Monarchs feeding upon all sorts of flowers in the garden, their young rely upon milkweed as their sole source of food. Monarchs will feed upon floral nectars but all the while are searching for milkweed for egg laying. The young caterpillars can't live without it.
So when you plant that butterfly garden, make sure to include milkweed for Monarchs. Research the host plants for other butterfly larva while you're at it.
