MANSFIELD – Due to the drastic decline in the population of the Monarch butterfly, Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) has partnered with the Ohio Pollinator Habitat Initiative (OPHI) in asking the public to collect swamp milkweed seed pods from established plants.
Milkweed seed pods may be dropped off and placed in a collection container from Sept. 1 through Oct. 30 at the Richland County Longview Center located at 1495 W. Longview Ave., Mansfield, Ohio, 44906. The seeds will be used to establish new plantings and create additional habitat for the Monarch butterfly throughout Ohio in the coming years.
“Common and swamp milkweed is essential to the survival of Monarch Butterflies in Ohio,” said Marci Lininger, biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Ohio is a priority area for Monarchs. This generation of Monarchs are also responsible for starting the life cycle all over again in the spring, and laying the following year’s first generation of Monarchs in late summer.”
Seed pods from common or swamp milkweed should be collected when the pods are dry and gray or brown in color. If the center seam pops with gentle pressure, they can be picked.
It is best to collect pods into paper bags or paper grocery sacks. Avoid using plastic bags because they can attract moisture and allow mold to develop. Store seeds in a cool, dry area until you can deliver to the closest pod collection area.
It is recommended to wear disposable gloves when picking and handling pods. Harvesting seed pods from milkweed plants will not have any effect on the population of milkweed in established areas.
For more information on the seed pod collection, contact Richland SWCD at 419.747.8686.
