Roots - rhizome
Milkweed has a long root called a rhizome.
There
are a few thin, short roots that grow out along the rhizome.
The
rhizome is found deep in the soil. The connection between the
stem and the rhizome can be fragile and breaks easily.
Roots/rhizome are important to plants.They
absorb water from the soil for land plants.They
take up minerals for the plant to use in photosynthesis.They
provide support to help the plant stand up.Some
roots store food for the plant like carrots and potatoes
Milkweed spreads through its rhizomes creating
stands or clusters of milkweed that are all connected. Transplanting
rhizomes is one way to add or move milkweed in your garden.
Dig straight down at least 12 inches and gently loosen the soil
to collect them. It is easiest to do this in the early spring
when the stems are short. You do not risk disturbing caterpillars
in early spring.
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Milkweed & Monarch Butterfly Mania
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