Lynda,
You are correct. The fall Monarch’s are in diapause and don’t breed. The migratory Monarchs can live up to 8 months because of diapause. No milkweed is needed on the journey south to Mexico, just on the journey north in the spring when those overwintering Monarchs come out of diapause and start breeding. Then it becomes a multigenerational travel north. I just said what you said so people can tell I’m confirming your reply!

We have two pollinator gardens near Madison, Wisconsin. It includes several types of Native Milkweed along with several types of nectar plants for when it’s time for the Monarch’s to head south and also for the Bee’s and Hummingbird’s. We have not seen many Monarchs yet, although we had two caterpillars in early June. (I believe 2nd generation) We brought the two into the safety of our butterfly houses that I built and watched them creat their chrysalis and eventually come out as beautiful Monarchs. I keep a journal and then name them! We have a third caterpillar right now. I check my plants several times a day for eggs and newborns. I love doing my part in attempting to revive the Monarch population!

I live in Southern California. I dont see any butterflies for last 3 years. Also the bees here are struggling. Something in the air is killing them . The bees will fly then just land on the ground . We have more moths and mosquitoes. Im 5 minutes from the beach.

Yes, you can keep plants in pots. I suggest keeping them in big pots. The plants will sprout new growth yearly (in central Florida). Native milkweed will die down but it’s not dead, just ignore it and watch. The milkweed will multiply on its own.
Have a great day! From aka The Butterfly Lady.

Karen here, hello Memi. I discovered Monarch cats on my Swamp Milkweed plant and ever since they keep coming around. The Giant Swallowtails “host” plant is the citrus tree leaves. So very amazing to watch after only watching Monarch cats on the Milkweed. GS cats are much different, especially their chrysalis’. So much fun for all to enjoy and learn about. My advice to everyone, “If you want butterflies, grow milkweed!” I also have a dwarf citrus tree, so perfect for spectators.