Tainted Milkweed Plants

  Many of the large home improvement stores have been selling Milkweed plants that have been treated with systemic Neonicotinoids. These plants are poisonous to birds and butterflies.

  As we know, Milkweed is the host plant for the life cycle of Monarch butterflies. In April and May, eggs are laid on the plant and hatch into the caterpillar. The caterpillar spends its time eating and eating. After about two weeks of eating and growing, the caterpillar will find a place to attach itself so it can go through metamorphosis. It attaches itself to a stem or leaf of the Milkweed and transforms into the chrysalis. In 10 days, the adult butterfly emerges and will feed on the nectar of flowers.  

  The treated plants are being sold to well-meaning people who want to help the Monarchs. If you are purchasing Milkweed plants check the information on the identification tag to see if the plants have been treated with "systemic Neonicotinoids."

This issue is currently being addressed by various environment agencies but the plants are already out there, so check the tags!