This document summarizes research on establishing monarch butterfly habitat. It discusses establishing plots of milkweed and nectar plants that monarchs depend on for breeding and food. Over 21 small grassland plots were created next to corn and soybean fields to evaluate monarch utilization over 3 years. The research aims to demonstrate effective habitat establishment through site selection, seed purchasing, site preparation, planting, and management techniques.

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ISU Monarch Research Team
Monarch Habitat Establishment
Seth Appelgate
M.S. – Research Agronomist
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Importance of Milkweed/Nectar Plants
• Monarch butterflies only lay eggs on milkweed
• Monarch caterpillars only feed on milkweed
• 17 milkweed species native to Iowa
• Monarch adult butterflies feed on nectar
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>90% of overwintering monarchs
originate from red area

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North American Monarch Population Decline

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Locations
• 21 plots
• Small grasslands adjacent to
corn/soybean fields
Timeline
• 3 field seasons: 2016‐2018
Data collection
• Monarch utilization
• Vegetation
• Site Management
• Economics
Habitat Establishment Demonstrations

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ISU Monarch Seed Mix – High Diversity

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Timing
• Buy early in calendar year
Dealer Selection
• Pricing
• Seed species availability
• True seed source
• Palmer amaranth
Seed Purchase

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• Risk of being sprayed/drifted onto
• Erosion potential
• Maintenance access
• Site longevity
• Existing vegetation
• Full sun
Location Considerations
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1. Eliminate non‐native species
2. Increase % bare soil
3. Prevent seed set for growing season
4. Minimize soil disturbance
Site Prep Objectives
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Timing
• Fall, before freeze up
• Very early spring
Depth
• 2x the diameter of the seed
• 0” – ¼”
Planting Guidelines

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Year 1
• Mow, mow, mow
Year 2
• Mow less and at taller height
Year 3
• Burn in early spring or fall
• Burn once every 3 years
Management

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