Asclepias eriocarpa. by Robert Parks
Tips for Harvesting Milkweed Seeds:
Pluck ’em, Shake ’em or Flame ’em
by David F. Marriott
Executive Director, The Monarch Program
Separating milkweed seeds from the floss can be a messy and aggravating task. I have listed three of the easiest methods I have encountered during the past twenty-five years of growing milkweed plants. The methods shown below are for Aslepias curassavica, however any milkweeds species may be chosen. All techniques for removing seeds from the floss should be done outdoors.
1. Pluck ’em
This method is probably the best, but there is a small window of time to obtain a seed pod which is just beginning to split open. When found, pluck the seed pod from the stem and peel back the pod skin as shown. Holding tight with one hand, grasp the seeds with the thumb, index and middle fingers, then slowly pull the seeds off. If the seed pod is picked at the right time, the seeds will come off easily, leaving only the floss. The window of time is about two hours before the pod opens up all the way and makes a big mess.
2. Shake ’em
Cut a small corner of a paper bag as shown. Put the seeds and floss in the bag (no pods), roll the top and shake. Reach into the bag and fluff the floss. Pour the seeds out the hole.
3. Flame ’em
Place the seeds and floss into an open container, a coffee can works well. Make sure there are no pod pieces or other debris. Using a butane lighter or a wooden match, ignite the floss. There will be a really quick flame and most all floss will disappear as shown. Only use two or three seed pods for this method.