Date: 04/01/2020

Number: 5

I have big leaf milkweed that survived in pot from last year. Gathered one egg that has hatched. Also 5 other larva that I have in my 'nursery'. I have observed growth to now that the caterpillars are 1/4-1/2" in length. I provide cuttings in the nursery and keep moisture level by spraying top of container to keep leaves from drying out to rapidly. I have checked my other milkweed plants but have not found more eggs or larva. One small leaf plant was so decimated with aphids I cut it back. It is doubtful it will survive. The aphids seem to prefer the smaller leaf than the big leaf milkweed. I have one of each still surviving, but fear I will not have enough milkweed to supply food to full growth of all 6, so will need to buy another plant. I have planted big leaf seeds (3rd try), so am hopeful they will grow this time. This is joyful to do and reward is greater than amount of work to raise Monarchs. Trish

Key West, FL

Latitude: 24.6 Longitude: -81.6

Observed by: Trish
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