Swamp & Common MW sprouting

[Robert61]

Hello from Waystation #613 in NW Ohio. For the MLMP, I've numbered the MW plants, so I can record info on each one. I've noticed that the Common MW grows much faster than the Swamp MW, as far as height in inches on 5/14/10. Also, last year I recorded eggs laid and found that the Monarchs prefer Swamp over Common MW by far. Robert at CREATE A WILDIFE-FRIENDLY YARD. Wondered if anyone else noticed these two observations.

http://wildlifefriendlylawn.blogspot.com/

[Mona Miller]

I find that just when you think you have the Monarch figured out, they change milkweed preference.

[pjvanee]

I have had a happy, healthy common milkweed planted in a giant pot right next to my swamp milkweed for about five years now. It has never had an egg laid on it. I have only had two eggs laid on my A.tuberosa plant. In my yard the monarch's prefer swamp milkweed.

I am planting some new varieties this year (purple, showy, poke, tall green, and spider). Not sure how well they will do in my yard, but I will be interested to see if any of these new varietes rival the swamp milkweed.

[Mona Miller]

I've seen them use the Purple Milkweed, but don't have experience with the other milkweeds that you've planted.

[skinnyhoops]

On the subject of Monarch preference....I only have 3 Scarlet Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) plants, it's the tropical variety since I live in Florida. The Monarchs are laying eggs left and right on them.

I'm interested in growing some Swamp Milkweed in the future. I didn't see any at the local stores, so I might have to just grow some from seed. It's almost July, so probably too late this year?

[Mona Miller]

It is a perennial, it takes a while to start. If you don't have fresh seed, then it needs cold treatment. If you lived near me, I'd give you some plants. I have loads of seedlings.

[NickiM]

I found 20 out of 22 cats on Swamp Milkweed, 2 on Common. But, inside the cats go for the Common leaves over the Swamp every time. Rebelious kids!!

[Mona Miller]

Actually, the swamp is more toxic than the common. Wonder if that makes it taste bad.