Native Flower Seed Mix for Monarchs

A purpose-built native wildflower seed mix formulated specifically to support Monarch butterfly populations and the pollinators that share their habitat. Monarch populations have declined significantly due to the loss of nectar sources and milkweeds — this mix directly addresses both. It combines 20 native wildflowers and milkweeds that provide nectar for adult Monarchs, host plants for egg-laying and caterpillar feeding, and critical habitat for native bees, honey bees, and other pollinators. Formulated for use in the Monarch’s summer breeding range and flyway zones across the Midwestern United States. Sowing rate: 8 oz per 1,000 sq ft / 11–22 lbs per acre.

Mix Components (20 Native Species)

Autumn Sneezeweed, Bergamot, Butterfly Milkweed, Clasping Coneflower, Cup Plant, Cutleaf Coneflower, Gayfeather, Hoary Vervain, Indian Blanket, Joe Pye Weed, Lance-Leaved Coreopsis, New England Aster, Ox-Eye Sunflower, Prairie Ironweed, Purple Coneflower, Rigid Goldenrod, Smooth Aster, Swamp Milkweed, Tickseed Sunflower, Wild Sunflower

Sowing Guide

When to plant: In frost-free regions (Florida, Texas, California, etc.) plant any time except the hottest part of summer. In frost-prone regions (Indiana, New York, Minnesota, etc.) plant in spring, summer, or fall. Minimum 6 hours of full sun required; full sun all day gives best results.

Site preparation: Remove all existing vegetation. Till the soil and rake flat. If soil is heavy clay with poor drainage, amend with compost to improve drainage before sowing.

Sowing: Mix seeds with sand to improve visibility and prevent clumping during broadcast. Scatter seeds directly on the soil surface — do not bury. Press seeds lightly into soil (walk over them, use a board, or use a seed roller for large areas) so rain and wind cannot move them.

Sowing rate: 4–10 oz per 1,000 sq ft / 4–15 lbs per acre general guideline. This mix: 8 oz per 1,000 sq ft / 11–22 lbs per acre.

Establishment: Keep soil consistently moist until seedlings reach 4–6 inches tall. After establishment, plants survive on natural rainfall — water only during extended dry spells.

Annual maintenance: Once per year in late fall — after all flowers have bloomed and dropped their seeds — mow the entire meadow with a weed trimmer or mower set to its tallest setting. This removes dead foliage and encourages strong growth the following spring.

Sowing Specs

• Species count: 20 native wildflowers and milkweeds
• Target habitat: Monarch summer breeding range and flyway zones — Midwestern United States
• Sowing rate: 8 oz / 1,000 sq ft | 11–22 lbs / acre
• Light: Minimum 6 hours full sun; full sun preferred
• Attracts: Monarch butterflies, native bees, honey bees, pollinators
• Includes milkweeds: Yes (Butterfly Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed)