We all want our growing area to be full of wonderful rare species that bloom constantly and never need to be watered.  But the reality is nature has a different story.

Every year, we spend countless hours making the decision on which plant to keep and which ones to pull out.  Knowing some of the most common species of weeds that invade your garden will save you time and effort.  Here is a list some of the most common weeds that most people do not want in their gardens:

1. Dandelion

Taraxacum officinale

2. Oxalis

Oxalidaceae family

3. Crabgrass

Digitaria genus

4. Bindweed

Convolvulus arvensis

5. Lamb’s Quarter

Chenopodium album

6. Plantain

Plantago major

7. Pigweed

Amaranthus palmeri

8. Canada Thistle

Cirsium arvense

9. Cheat grass

Bromus tectorum

10. Ragweed

Ambrosia genus

Know that a “weed” can be any plant that is undesirable.  Some “weeds” can help your ecosystem, provide edible food or look beautiful.  Do some more research on each particular species to identify which species you truly desire in your growing area.

Here are some helpful links for some more info on weeds in your area:

http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome

http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/animalsAndPlants/noxious-weeds/weed-identification.aspx

http://www.invasives.wsu.edu/biological/index.htm

 

Photos: Mark Dixon, paul_houle, Zachi Evenor, Jerry Oldenettel, Donald Hobern,  Jerry Oldenettel, Franco Folini, United Soybean Board, born1945, Matt Lavin, pawpaw67

By Jake Frazier

Jake Frazier is an outdoor enthusiast and the owner of Residential Ecology, a sustainable ecological resource management company. He uses existing natural systems to improve the quality of life for both humans and the Earth. Jake is interested in permaculture, living systems and exploring. Connect with him on LinkedIn.