Milkweed Plant Has White Substance That Is Hard To Remove

Question From: K. Haines - Taylor, Michigan, United States
Q: Nancy I got some of that white substance from one of my milkweed plants on my pants.It seems rather hard to remove.Any suggestions?

A: I believe it may be powdery mildew. You won't be able to remove it, but may be able to slow it down. If you planted it as a draw for Monarchs, spray it ( tops and bottoms of leaves ) with milk at a rate of 1 part milk to 9 parts water. Repeat after every rain. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy

Q: That was a milky substance inside the stalks of the milkweed.I had only one caterpillar under one leaf.Can I cut them down now?

A: The milky substance is the sap of the milkweed. If you are growing these plants to attract Monarchs best to wait until fall to cut them down. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy

Q: Sorry to bother you again.I cut the flowers off the milk weed because I had read they become like cottonwood trees and fly all over the place.Will I still get eggs under the leaves without the flowers?

A: Maybe yes and maybe no. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy