The Effect of Varying Moisture Levels During Cold Stratification on the Germination Success of Asclepias Speciosa and Asclepias Syriaca
Location
CoLab, COM 349
Start Date
30-4-2026 3:45 PM
Document Type
Poster
Description
The purpose of this study was to test different moisture levels on Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias speciosa milkweed seeds during cold stratification. The significance of our research is to determine protocols that encourage rapid growth of milkweed to help stabilize the monarch butterfly population of Johnson County. To stimulate cold-moist stratification, seeds were divided into groups and placed in mason jars with varying water levels in a 40F temperature-controlled environment for 4 weeks. This study evaluates how moisture availability influences the seeds' ability to break dormancy, providing data for local habitat restoration.
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The Effect of Varying Moisture Levels During Cold Stratification on the Germination Success of Asclepias Speciosa and Asclepias Syriaca
CoLab, COM 349
The purpose of this study was to test different moisture levels on Asclepias syriaca and Asclepias speciosa milkweed seeds during cold stratification. The significance of our research is to determine protocols that encourage rapid growth of milkweed to help stabilize the monarch butterfly population of Johnson County. To stimulate cold-moist stratification, seeds were divided into groups and placed in mason jars with varying water levels in a 40F temperature-controlled environment for 4 weeks. This study evaluates how moisture availability influences the seeds' ability to break dormancy, providing data for local habitat restoration.
Comments
The faculty mentor for this project was Sarah Powell.