Wonderful weeds

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The term weed has most commonly been used to describe wild, unwanted plants or plants where they shouldn't be. I took a short walk around town and snapped some pictures of weeds that are visually improving their concrete surroundings.

I think this is ingenious! The occupiers have left an unpaved edging allowing weeds to grow abundently, but with order.

I think this is ingenious. The occupiers have left an unpaved edge, allowing weeds to grow abundantly and relatively kempt. A simple, inexpensive and low maintenance addition to their cosy front porch... and a kind welcome to the uninvited. 


Some charming corner features. All of the above are all considered aggressive and invasive species,  (Aegopodium podagraria, Parietaria judaica, Campanula portenschlagiana).

    An icon. 

Weeds are wonderful, they provide nectar for our pollinators, sequester carbon and add life to our concrete streets. My attitudes towards wildflowers and weeds has changed. Yes, they can look messy and evoke negative emotions, but that's often due to the mistreated spaces and alley ways they adorn. I find a comfort seeing them thrive in the most unexpected circumstances. 

They're truly beautiful, every plant is a wonder and weeds more so, for their determination and ecological benefits. 

There are of course invasive plants, much like bamboo that is sold in nurseries, that should be controlled. But some unexpected visitors can add great value to a garden and do in our urban habitats. 

perhaps banish the word weed all together.


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