Side Cluster Milkweed

Poke Milkweed (Asclepias exaltata) should be watered once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. For most soils, about 1 inch of water is recommended per week. Water should be applied directly to the soil, taking care to avoid the leaves. Too much water can result in root rot, so avoid over-watering. In colder months, when growth slows, you can reduce watering frequency.

Poke Milkweed (Asclepias exaltata) needs approximately 4-7 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and flower. Planting it in a sunny to partly shaded spot is ideal to receive adequate amounts of sunlight throughout the day. Sunlight should be in the morning or mid-day for maximum photosynthesis and should be reduced to 3 hours or less towards the end of the day to avoid any potential sunburn.

Poke Milkweed should be pruned annually. Pruning should take place in late spring or early summer, shortly after the plant has finished flowering and before new growth begins. Cut down all flower stems to the base of the plant. This will help keep the plant tidy, promote healthy growth, and prevent the formation of seedpods. Additionally, deadhead any spent flowers throughout the growing season as needed. It may also be beneficial to lightly prune other stems throughout the season to help promote a bushy habit.