The Season of the Weeds

We've been thoroughly enjoying the rain over the past few weeks! However, it also marks the beginning of Weed Season, which isn't our most favored time.

I've heard someone mention that a weed is simply a plant growing where it doesn't belong. One particular weed we are eager to eliminate is goat heads due to their sharp spiny burs. (Otherwise known as stickers).

Our gardens are heavily mulched with organic straw that has been in the duck pen, so we only have the occasional weed pop up and it is simple to pull it as soon as we see it. But in our pathways and empty spots, the weeds sometimes take over, and it's tempting to run to a big box store for some weed killer. We hold back because we know how weed killers can affect our well water, aquifers, livestock, and food.

How do we manage weeds? We depend on our own physical effort and our animals. We utilize hoes and a reliable flamethrower to remove them, or we let our goats, chickens, turkeys, and ducks do the job.

Are all "weeds" the same? Nope! Some "weeds" we actually let grow. Native flowers that many people see as weeds are kept around for the native bees, birds, and insects.

Next time you notice weeds in your yard, consider: is this truly a weed? Can I tolerate its presence? Does it benefit local bees, birds, and insects? Can I opt for an organic weed management method?