MONARCH BUTTERFLIES ARE

ENDANGERED

Migratory monarch butterflies are considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to population declines of over 80% compared to their numbers in the 1990s.

WHY THAT IS HAPPENING:

Monarchs are completely dependent on one plant:

Milkweed is the only plant that monarch caterpillars eat, and adult butterflies lay their eggs exclusively on it—making native milkweed essential for their survival and migration. Planting native milkweed is crucial for conservation efforts.

We harvest common milkweed seeds from native plants, then distribute them in small printed envelopes at the café.
If they are not in stock, ask to get added to our wait list!
Cleveland is in the direct migratory path for monarchs traveling over Lake Erie. Each monarch migration takes 3-4 months to complete and can span over 3,000 miles from Canada to Mexico.
PLANTING MILKWEED = SAVING MONARCHS

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS!

Received a seed pack? Click below for planting instructions:

PDF courtesy of the Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District.

Cuyahoga CSWD Planting Guide
  • RAISE AWARENESS:

    Raise awareness! The challenges that this species face are unique because there is a clean solution in the hands of the public. And it can be as simple as taking some seeds and throwing them behind your garage.

  • SEED DISTRIBUTION:

    We are always looking for help printing and stocking seed packs. This involves a quick demonstration, and sending you with a small jar or seeds and envelopes. 7-10 days later, we'll porch pick up the supplies and any finished envelopes!

  • POD PLEDGE:

    We are in need of common milkweed pods. If this is something you can plan to provide in the fall / early winter, please let us know!

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Thank you for reading!
Our team is committed to creating a space that can be both a place for great food, while still having a positive impact on our environment and conservation. Have a comment or advice related to anything? Let us know!