Sometimes the difference between a cultivated plant and a weed is hard to distinguish. A weed is any plant that grows where it is unwanted. In our ever-more inclusive gardening culture, nearly any plant can find supporters and detractors. It all depends on the gardener’s perspective. A rose bush could be considered a weed if it sprouts in the vegetable garden. Some plants serve a valuable purpose in one area of the yard, but would take over the world if given half a chance to roam free.
1. Bermuda Grass.
Throughout its range, Bermuda grass is an easy to grow lawn grass and a useful pasture grass. It establishes quickly and grows back easily after damage. Unfortunately the tough, spreading roots and stolons easily creep over concrete and invade garden spaces as well. Attempts to physically control Bermuda grass, like pulling or rototilling, only make matters worse, as each tiny piece of root, stem, or leaf left behind can become a new plant.
2. Morning Glory.
Morning glory vines covering a garden fence or arbor with their colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers attract a huge array of nectar-feeding pollinators. In addition to their benefits to wildlife, they bring a welcome splash of color just when the garden begins to fade. But be prepared, these beauties can pose a challenge when those flowers go to seed.
3. Mint.
There are so many uses for mint, and so many varieties to be had, it’s hard to resist this popular, easy to grow herb. However, like other plants on this list, mints have aggressive, spreading roots that quickly cover large spaces. To keep mint in bounds, plant it in a container elevated from the ground.