Marianne's Response

Woodland Plants…weeds or not!

Hi Marianne! Any chance you do any consulting in the Gig harbor area? Would love to have your (paid) advise regarding my new woodlands and full sun yard, only about 200 feet apart!
But if not…I have been exploring my woodlands, and have found some plants/weeds that I’m not sure about. I’ve attached some pics, with my best guess as to what it is, by using the app, My Plants. Of the pictures, I think Robert’s geranium is a weed; probably the common Nipplewort too. The fringe cut might be a weed, but has a pretty blossom right now. Two that I think are keepers are the waves, and waves of Enchanter’s nightshade and the sweet Siberian spring beauty. Thoughts? As always, thanks for your help! Cathy

Posted by Cathy McLeod on May 28, 2021

Marianne's Response

Your woodlands must be lovely with all those wild flowers and as I cannot visit your site I will say to remove all the pink blooming Herb Robert or Roberts Geranium (also called Stinky Bob) and then let the rest coexist if you like how they look. There is no real distinction between a "weed" and a "wild flower" unless you have a plant considered noxious by the state weed board. I do know that Herb Robert is considered noxious or invasive in your area. You can add pathways of wood chips and sword ferns and other native plants to the shaded areas and enjoy the wildlife and pollinators that are attracted to your woodland area. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti

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