The annual Monarchs & Milkweed festival at Merkle Natural Resources Management Area takes place on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This free, family-friendly event features butterfly tagging and release, guest speakers, garden tours, and native plant education.
Milkweed Species for Maryland Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa): Bright orange flowers, grows 2 feet tall, loves dry and sandy soil.
Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata): Pink or white flowers, grows 4 to 5 feet tall, likes moist or clay soil.
Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca): Fragrant pink blooms, grows up to 6 feet tall, spreads fast in open spaces.
Planting and Care Tips Sunlight: Put plants in full sun for the best growth and flowers.
Seeds: Many native seeds need a cold period (cold stratification) before they sprout. Plant them outdoors in winter or keep seeds in a damp paper towel in the fridge for 4 weeks first.
Water: Water young plants often until roots take hold. Established plants need very little care.
https://edsplantworld.com/blogs/blog/milkweed-and-monarchs?_pos=9&_sid=f68a10287&_ss=r
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