Will my milkweed die if it droops?

Usually not, as long as you catch it early. It is a tough plant that can bounce back quickly once hydrated.

Do aphids cause drooping?

Heavy aphid infestations can sometimes cause new growth to curl or droop. Check the undersides of leaves for these small insects.

Why is my Showy milkweed drooping? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is completely dry.
Observe the plant in the early morning to see if it recovers.
Check for aphids clustering on the stems.

Likely causes

Severe Dehydration
Possible
How to tell: The entire plant looks limp and the soil has pulled away from the edges of the pot or cracked in the ground.
What to do: Water the plant deeply right away. It should perk back up within a few hours if the roots are still healthy.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant droops during the hottest part of the afternoon but looks fine in the early morning.
What to do: Provide some temporary shade during the peak heat of the day. Ensure the plant is well mulched to keep the root zone cool.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your showy milkweed

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the plant stays droopy even after you water it or during the cool morning hours. It is normal for plants to wilt slightly in intense afternoon sun.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the plant is established with a deep root system by watering deeply rather than frequently.

Showy milkweed: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your showy milkweed and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will my milkweed die if it droops?: Usually not, as long as you catch it early. It is a tough plant that can bounce back quickly once hydrated.
Do aphids cause drooping?: Heavy aphid infestations can sometimes cause new growth to curl or droop. Check the undersides of leaves for these small insects.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Showy milkweed drooping?