Free Shipping on US Seed Orders of $20+ SHOP NOW

Milkweed Seeds

Originating from diverse habitats across North America, milkweed seeds are adaptable to different climates. They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9. Milkweed plants bloom from early to late summer, displaying lively colors of oranges and pinks to subtle whites and greens. Depending on the region and species, milkweeds can grow as perennials. They provide a sustainable habitat for wildlife, adding beauty to landscapes. You can find Survival Garden milkweed seeds for sale here and a variety of other seeds we offer on the main page.

View as

Growing Milkweed Seeds in Your Garden

  • Exclusive food source and host plant for Monarch caterpillars
  • Usually grown as perennials
  • 3 milkweed varieties to choose from
  • Most seeds germinate within 10-15 days

PLANTING MILKWEED SEEDS

For optimal growth, milkweed seeds should be sown directly into the garden. Fall or early spring is recommended, avoiding the frost. In zones 3 through 7, fall planting is ideal, allowing for natural cold stratification. For zones 8 and 9, spring planting is advised.

Milkweed seeds benefit from being planted in their final location. They develop deep root systems early on and don’t do well with transplanting. The seeds require sunlight to germinate. Simply scattering them on the soil surface will do. Germination typically occurs within 10 to 15 days. Thin seedlings to give each plant ample space to grow. Spacing between plants should be about 12 inches.

CARING FOR MILKWEED PLANTS

Milkweed prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. At least four hours of direct sunlight daily is necessary. Most milkweed species, including Butterfly Weed and Common Milkweed, thrive in well-drained, moderately fertile soils.

Milkweed, with its lush foliage and clusters of flowers, adds a wild beauty factor to a garden setting. The plant also serves as a crucial food source and nursery plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars, as well as a nectar source for adult butterflies. To encourage a longer blooming period, remove spent flowers, which promotes new growth. After blooming is finished, allow some seed pods to mature. You can save the seeds following the instructions on the back of the packet, or allow the plants to naturally reseed by releasing milkweed seeds for monarchs. Depending on the species, these plants can reach two to five feet. Milkweed supports biodiversity in your local ecosystem and preserves our planet's delicate balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are heirloom seeds?

Heirloom seeds are the types of seeds your grandparents grew. These varieties have been passed down from generation to generation. They’re old reliable open-pollinated varieties that aren’t typically grown commercially. Instead, they have a rich history that predates modern breeding techniques. You can learn more about open-pollinated, heirloom, and non-GMO seeds in our Survival Garden Training blog.

How do I know my seeds are fresh?

Every seed packet includes a "packed for" date, and we germination test each seed lot before packaging to ensure you receive viable, high-quality seeds that are ready to grow.

Are your seeds chemically treated?

No, we do not pre-treat our seeds. All of our garden seeds are untreated, open-pollinated, non-GMO, and heirloom varieties. They are kept in temperature-controlled cooler storage until they are packed and shipped to keep them pest and disease-free.

Will your seeds grow in my USDA Hardiness zone?

The seeds in our collections are specifically chosen from varieties that can be successfully grown from Zone 3 to Zone 10 USDA Hardiness Zones. However, individual varieties have specific needs to thrive in different environments. Each seed pack has optimal temperatures for germination and instructions on seed starting. Consult local frost dates to plan your garden and get the most out of your seeds.

What is the shelf life of these garden seeds?

Most seeds remain viable for 3 to 5 years or longer when stored properly. Check your seed packet for specific varieties. For best results, keep your seeds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Store them in an airtight container in a consistent temperature environment—a refrigerator or cool basement works well. Proper storage helps maintain germination rates and extends seed life well beyond the packed date.

Where are Survival Garden Seeds sourced?

The majority of our seeds are sourced in the United States, with a few exceptions when the seed is difficult to source domestically. Whenever we do have to source outside of the US, we ensure our seeds are safe to grow, non-GMO, heirloom varieties that meet our standards for germination and reliability.

Learn more in the blog

View all
Back to top