Part 2
Three Weeds Most Wanted — DEAD!
by Jeanne DeBenedetti Keyes
Okay, I promised three of my most wanted weeds, but I have a three-way tie for third place.
Catchweed Bedstraw (Galium aparine) (photo right) has got to be one of the most annoying weeds, but it is also easy to pull up. Catchweed bedstraw is a winter or summer annual broadleaf plant that requires disturbance to establish and as such is very common in gardens, yards and other disturbed areas. The stems are square in cross-section and the leaves whorl around the stem in groups of 6 to 8. Each leaf has tiny down-curved prickles on the leaf edge and mid-veins that give the leaves a raspy or sticky feel, allowing the weed to cling to clothing, hair or animal fur. The fruits are covered in hook-tipped hairs and look like tiny, bristly balls that also easily catch on clothing or fur, aiding in dispersal. Wear gloves and long sleeves when pulling this nasty weed up as the bristles can abrade your skin.
And how about stinky bob (Geranium robertianum) (photo below left), also known as herb Robert for another irritating weed. Sure, it’s little, pink flowers are kind of cute but don’t let this one get a foothold in your garden. Herb Robert reproduces only by seed but the seeds mature into pointed capsules that can eject the seeds up to 20 feet when disturbed. The seeds can live in the soil for up to 5 years. The leaves are deeply dissected and light green in color. When crushed, the leaves give off a pungent odor, hence the common name “Stinky bob”. The stems are red, with little white hairs. Herb Robert invades oak and fir woodland areas.
Last but not least is the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) (photo below right). The dandelion is very versatile and can inhabit gardens, crop fields, and other disturbed areas. Although, dandelions are a host of aster yellow disease which affects many vegetable crops, it can serve as a complement to pasture forage for livestock. Dandelions flower nearly year-round in mild climates. Who doesn’t recognize its bright yellow flower or its halo of parachute-like seeds that fly into the air with the slightest breeze? Unfortunately, this one is a favorite with children, who can’t resist “blowing bubbles” with the seed heads. Dandelions have deep tap roots and can be difficult to pull. I usually use a shovel to dislodge them but make sure you get the whole root or you’ll be doing the same activity next year!
Co-author Debbie Teashon's book is now available!
Gardening for the Homebrewer: Grow and Process Plants for Making Beer, Wine, Gruit, Cider, Perry, and More
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