Outlook Good for Milkweed Crop

Macomb, IL – Milkweed as a crop was highlighted at this year's Alternative Crops Field Day at Western Illinois University. Associate Professor of Agriculture Win Phippen is interested in the scientific and commercial benefits of the plant usually considered a weed. Phippen says the floss from seed pods can be used as a non-allergenic additive to goose down. Milkweed can also be used as an alternative pesticide for soybean, potato, corn and alfalfa crops.