Aphids?

Hi Claire,

Here's an article that should help you. I'm sure you know, but just in case others don't, swan plants are also called milkweed plants. Good luck!

https://monarchbutterflygarden.net/control-aphids-milkweed-plants/

I'd take EACH leaf, and brush the undersides, stems, etc., with a paint brush using a bit of Dish soap and water; Aphids are soft bodied and easy to kill ... or take a small clear plastic baggie, gently tie it over the branch/leaves with the Butterfly eggs; and SPRAY the plant with the soap/water mixture; remove the baggie as soon as you are finished ...

I’ve used my hand on my butterfly weed to mash or knock them off.

Get some ladybugs. They will eat the aphids.

Ladybugs, you can buy live ones and have them delivered.......mist the plants gently with water then release the ladybugs at night or late evening just before it gets dark so they acclimatise, if you release in the day they fly off! They will not harm the butterfly eggs.

After you have gotten rid of your unwanted pests, and all of the above were great suggestions, place 2 or 3 whole bananas around the base of the plant. Fruit can be partially green and will decompose nicely. You do not have to remove the black peels. I placed new fruit every other week. Garden was aphid free as the aphids do like the smell of bananas. I purchased the bananas at the 99 cent store.