I've got wild plants popping up all over my yard—some are pretty cool, but others are starting to take over. I want to know how to choose which ones to keep and which ones to remove. Any tips on controlling these wild plants while keeping the natural vibe?
3 Answers
The first step is to identify the plants. Use apps like iNaturalist or Seek to see what's invasive versus what's native. Pull out any invasives to give your natives room to thrive. It's all about balance—let the native plants compete for space and see what works in your yard. Just remember, some plants may take a little time to figure out what to do with them, so be patient!
Another strategy is to create designated zones in your yard. Some areas can be mowed twice a year to control growth, while others can be left wild for plants to flourish naturally. I’ve found this way helps maintain diversity without the messiness getting out of hand too quickly. It's kind of like creating your own little ecosystem while keeping things manageable!
That sounds like a smart approach! I might try to set up areas like that in my garden too. Thanks for the tip!
Definitely start by identifying the plants first. If you find that some are non-natives and aggressive, it's best to remove them early before they seed and spread. For the aggressive ones like thistles or creeping buttercup, I've had success digging them up before they take over. Let the rest be and transplant any that seem out of control!
I hate thistles, too! They're beautiful but just too invasive. I've been digging them up whenever I see them as well.
Totally agree! I've been using those apps for plant ID, and they've really helped me understand what I should be keeping. It’s amazing what you learn!