Hummingbird and Butterfly Gardening: Feeding Monarch/Queen Caterpillars, 1 by Sheila_FW

Sheila_FW wrote:
Hi B1111....Just now setting down to read DG threads.
Lily and cutting are probably right about the pesticide on the HD plant. Their growers usually do use pesticides, most do. I wouldn't trust any of them that say they don't. As for how long it lasts, can't say. If it was me....I would search it with a magnifing glass for eggs and cats, then take soapy water and spray it well with that for starters. Also cut back the stems about 1/3 ....yeah...I know it will hurt you more than the plant. Then cover it with a net that will let light in but small enough not to allow bfs to lay eggs. After it starts putting out about an inch of new shoots you can take off the net and allow them to lay eggs again. By then the other leaves would be older and they will lay eggs on the new tender growth.

One suggestion with those eggs or cats you may get on the young plants. Instead of releasing them on the plant at school, why not keep them caged there, and use the school leaves as needed to feed them. As you know, a wasp or other parasitic predator could be waiting. Plus, they would be a great classroom experience.
Sheila


Monarch on Frostweed in late September here...