top of page
Writer's pictureAmanda Ross

What Is A Weed & Why Are Some So Awesome?


Let's talk green thumb gossip. Weeds. They're the uninvited guests at the garden party who just so happen to bring something to the table. They may crash the crop, orchard, and garden scenes, but they know how to keep biodiversity on the beat in our concrete jungles.



The term "weed" refers to a plant which isn't wanted in a particular place because it conflicts with human preferences, needs or goals. However, the classification of whether a plant is a weed or not has no botanical significance as a plant may be considered a weed in one context and not in another. There are some plants which are widely considered weeds but are purposely grown in gardens and other cultivated areas, often called "beneficial weeds". Plants which grow from a previous crop are also considered weeds when they grow in a different crop. Some call them "hardy pioneers," others "cosmopolitan species," or even just "volunteers." But for us plant lovers, we like to call it a party in the yard. That's right, those little colorful flower invaders in your lawn? They're not weeds, my friend. They're VIP guests at the eco-friendly soiree happening right under your nose. So why not roll out the green carpet for these nectar-filled nibbles for our wildlife buddies?

New England Asters
Asters tend to be considered weeds.

Now, some of those high-and-mighty horticulturalists might turn up their noses at

these wildflower wallflowers, but the permaculture peeps and flower fanatics know better. Remember, in the weed world, it's all about location, location, location. A misplaced marigold could be a weed, but does that make it less marvelous?


Picture this: when the colonizers brought along their Eurocentric English gardens, they started calling some of the native plants "weeds," like a bad nickname that just stuck. Now we've got milkweed, ironweed, ragweed, smartweed, pokeweed, horse-weed, bindweed, sneezeweed, and so many others. And guess what? These 'weeds' are the life of the party for local wildlife. So it's high time we started inviting them on purpose.


Sign up to receive our newsletter and be notified of our upcoming article on how to propane these marvelous weeds.


All jokes aside, here are some tips, a quick review, and useful information on how to control unwanted vegetation growth.

Weeds: Nature's Opportunists

1. Botanical Perspective:

  • In botanical terms, a weed is simply a plant that grows where it's not wanted.

  • These plants can be native or non-native, and their designation as a weed often depends on their context and impact on the surrounding environment.

2. Adaptability and Prolific Growth:

  • Weeds are characterized by their adaptability to a wide range of conditions.

  • They often display prolific growth, quickly colonizing disturbed or vacant spaces.


Types of Weeds

1. Invasive Weeds:

  • Some weeds, known as invasive species, have the potential to harm ecosystems by outcompeting native vegetation.

  • Invasive weeds can disrupt natural habitats, leading to a decline in biodiversity.

2. Beneficial Weeds:

  • Surprisingly, not all weeds are harmful. Some have ecological benefits, providing food and habitat for wildlife.

  • Certain weeds are also known for their medicinal or culinary uses.


Why Do Weeds Thrive?

1. Life Strategies:

  • Weeds often employ life strategies that contribute to their success.

  • Characteristics such as rapid growth, prolific seed production, and adaptability make them tenacious competitors in various environments.

2. Seed Dispersal:

  • Weeds are adept at dispersing their seeds, ensuring their survival and colonization of new areas.

  • Seeds can be transported by wind, water, animals, or even attached to clothing and shoes.


Managing Weeds

1. Best Practices:

  • Mulching, proper watering, and regular cultivation can help control weed growth in gardens.

  • Planting dense ground covers or using cover crops can also suppress weed emergence.

2. Herbicides:

  • In agriculture and landscaping, herbicides are commonly used to control weed populations.

  • However, the use of herbicides raises both health and environmental concerns. This option requires careful consideration.


 

In next week’s article, I’ll be discussing the pros and cons of using herbicides such as Roundup. I’ll also be interviewing a surprise guest!


Subscribe to our newsletter and get the

article sent directly to your inbox!


 

The Complexity of Weed Management

While the term "weed" often carries a negative connotation, it's essential to recognize the complexity of weed management. Striking a balance between controlling harmful invasive species and appreciating the ecological role of certain weeds is crucial. Weeds, in their tenacity, teach us about adaptability and the resilience of nature.


Remember, weeds, often dismissed as bothersome intruders, are a fascinating and resilient aspect of nature. They are not merely nuisances; they are nature's opportunists, filling roles in ecosystems that may be vacant or disturbed. Understanding their characteristics and employing sustainable management practices allows us to coexist with these persistent pioneers, appreciating the intricate dance of nature in our backyards and beyond.


 
 

1 comment

1 Comment


Diane Bradish
Diane Bradish
Jun 04

I love ❤️ our weeds !

Like
bottom of page