Monarchs and Milkweed

(9:30 minute video) Monarch butterfly populations have declined 90 percent across the US. A key piece of their habitat has been wiped out by farms and urban sprawl. Milkweed is the single most important plant for monarchs. It’s the only one they lay their eggs on and young caterpillars eat. People are encouraged to plant milkweed wherever they can to help monarchs along their long migration routes. [IMPORTANT: Plant only milkweed that is native to your area. In Oregon's Willamette Valley, that means Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) or Narrow-leaved Milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis). Try to use seeds that are as locally sourced as possible.] View 9:30 minute video here: Oregon Field Guide: Monarchs and Milkweed