Troubleshooting
Butterfly Weed problems — and how to fix them
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Slow spring emergence
Butterfly weed is one of the last perennials to break dormancy. Mark its position so you do not disturb or replant over it while it is still below ground.
Rot in wet soil
The deep taproot rots in heavy, poorly drained ground. Plant in sharply drained, lean soil and avoid overwatering.
Aphids (oleander aphids)
Bright yellow-orange aphids cluster on stems and buds. Hose them off or tolerate them, since they rarely kill an established plant and feed beneficial insects.
Transplant failure
The brittle taproot resents disturbance. Establish young plants in their final spot and avoid moving mature specimens.
Prevent butterfly weed problems before they start
Most butterfly weed issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for butterfly weed in general rather than its problems? Read the full butterfly weed care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Butterfly Weed problems — FAQ
Why is my butterfly weed slow spring emergence?
Butterfly weed is one of the last perennials to break dormancy. Mark its position so you do not disturb or replant over it while it is still below ground.
Why is my butterfly weed rot in wet soil?
The deep taproot rots in heavy, poorly drained ground. Plant in sharply drained, lean soil and avoid overwatering.
Why is my butterfly weed aphids (oleander aphids)?
Bright yellow-orange aphids cluster on stems and buds. Hose them off or tolerate them, since they rarely kill an established plant and feed beneficial insects.
Why is my butterfly weed transplant failure?
The brittle taproot resents disturbance. Establish young plants in their final spot and avoid moving mature specimens.