The distribution of milkweed plants by Home Depot is a promotional event focused on increasing the population of a vital resource for monarch butterflies. These events typically involve the retail company providing free milkweed seedlings or plants to the public, encouraging individuals to cultivate them in their gardens or local green spaces. The initiative directly supports monarch butterfly conservation efforts.
Monarch butterflies rely exclusively on milkweed plants as a food source for their larvae. Habitat loss and the decline of milkweed populations have significantly impacted monarch butterfly numbers. This type of public distribution aims to combat this decline by making milkweed more accessible to a wider audience. Historically, such efforts have proven effective in raising awareness about pollinator conservation and promoting citizen science.