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How to tell if a plant is a weed
Extension experts say weed control starts with correct identification, since annuals and perennials respond differently and some plants can outcompete turfgrass and garden crops.
The University of Minnesota defines a weed as any plant considered undesirable, unattractive, or troublesome when growing where unwanted; defining a weed as a plant growing where it is not wanted is an important distinction.
Sometimes, spirited arguments about weeds appear on Facebook, as the discussion often becomes less about identifying the plant and more about defending gardening philosophies, since there is room for differing views.
Wild violets and purslane bring mixed reactions; one person sees charming purple flowers in spring, while another sees an advancing army of heart-shaped plants that are very hard to control as they spread everywhere.
Penn State Extension emphasizes that correctly identifying a weed is an important first step in determining the best control, while Colorado State University adds that a weed competes with plants we would rather have.
In conclusion, one gardener's weed can be another gardener's wildflower, ground cover, or edible green, and that is the wonderful thing about gardening: we don't all have to agree.