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Plot
establishment (2001)
In May 2001, seed from five populations of milkweed were
sown at the rate of 6 pounds per acre with a 2-row cone seeder at the
Western Illinois University Agronomy Farm. The plots were 800 ft2
and were planted on 30 inch rows. The seed was collected from
locations in Wyoming, Nebraska, and Illinois, and evaluations were
made throughout 2001 to observe plant health and vigor of the varying
populations. No seed was produced on the first year
direct seeded plants, but stalks were removed at the end of the
season.
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Maintenance
(2002)
In early spring 2002 prior to seedling emergence, herbicide
was applied to provide season long weed control. Emergence of all
plots was observed by April 25, 2002, and the first flowers were noted on
June 11, 2002. Plots were maintained throughout the summer
with minimal weeding. Applications of insecticides and fungicides
were needed on several occasions in mid to late summer to control milkweed bugs, aphids, and
black spot.
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Second year results (2002)
Evaluations of plant health were made again during the
2002 season
with the Illinois population showing the most vigor as evidenced by
increased height, resistance to
fungal diseases, and number of blooms and pods. Follicles were harvested from all populations when 10% of
the follicles were
open. Harvest dates ranged from mid-August to late September with
the Illinois population of common milkweed being the last to
mature. A total of 7100 follicles were harvested from all plots
providing a fresh weight of 165 pounds. |
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Maintenance (2003)
In advance of milkweed emergence in early spring, a
preemergence herbicide was applied to all plots. This application
provided good coverage for most weed species throughout the season with
remaining weeds controlled by hand cultivation or grass herbicide
application. Plants in all plots emerged by April 24 and began
blooming in mid-June. One treatment of insecticide was applied in June
18 to control a severe milkweed beetle infestation. Spot treatments of
aphids and black spot were also performed as needed. Third year results
(2003)
Observations on plant health and growth characteristics were noted again
in this third year of growth. The Illinois population surpassed the
non-native populations in disease and insect resistance as well as plant
height and strength. Follicles were harvested from all plots in
September but no harvest data was taken. |
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