Over the past few weeks, I’ve been hearing the same question repeatedly: “Which milkweeds should I plant to help monarch butterflies?” It’s a great question, but the answer isn’t simple. Many gardeners want to do the right thing. Yet, some well-meaning choices can actually harm these beautiful butterflies.
Take tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica), for example. It’s bright, easy to grow, and often sold as “monarch-friendly.” But in Florida, it can disrupt monarch migration, interfere with breeding cycles, and increase disease risks. As a homeowner, it can feel overwhelming. How do you know which plants truly help wildlife?
To answer these questions, I reached out to Sheri Holmes, M.Sc. Her master’s research at the University of Florida explored oviposition preference and larval development of monarchs on four milkweed species in South Florida. Sheri studied how monarchs interact with different milkweeds. She found which ones support healthy development and which can unintentionally do more harm than good.
In her upcoming talk, Sheri will explain why tropical milkweed can be risky for monarchs. She will highlight safer native milkweed species and other pollinator-friendly plants you can grow. She’ll share practical tips you can use right away to create healthier habitats for monarchs and other pollinators.
This event is more than just a lecture. It’s a chance to learn how small choices in your garden can make a big difference.
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