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Ways to Use or Dispose of Weeds

For many, summertime is a season of battle. You and your pristine lawn against persistent unwanted weeds. If you would like some tips on how to use and dispose of weeds as you pull them, you have come to the right place. Read on to learn more about the unique ways you can utilize weeds or stop them in their tracks.

Eat ‘em, Drink ‘em, Put ‘em In a Stew!

Weeds are weeds simply because you don’t want them in your lawn, but that does not mean they are worthless plants. In fact, did you know that some of the most common weeds found in American lawns are edible? Here are a few examples!

Dandelions: Young dandelion leaves can be used in salads, while the flowers can be used to make dandelion wine or infused into teas.

Purslane: This succulent weed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can be added to salads, stir-fries, or used as a thickener in soups.

Lamb's quarters: The leaves of this weed are similar to spinach and can be cooked or used in salads.

When using weeds for consumption, ensure that they haven't been treated with pesticides or grown in contaminated areas. Properly identify the weeds and follow safe foraging practices. But don’t miss out on a free harvest!

Add ‘em to the Compost Bin

Weeds can be an excellent addition to your compost pile. However, some precautions are necessary to prevent them from reseeding or spreading. Here's what you can do when you want to use weeds in this way.

Remove the seed heads or flowers from the weeds before composting to prevent them from producing more seeds.

Avoid composting weeds that have gone to seed or are likely to regrow from root fragments. Instead, dispose of these weeds separately to prevent their spread.

Feed Your Lawns

If you don't want to compost the weeds, you can use them as mulch. Spread them over the soil around your plants to help suppress weed growth, retain moisture, and improve soil health. However, ensure that the weeds don't contain seeds or rhizomes that can sprout and cause further weed problems.

And there you have it! Some great ways that you can use weeds to your advantage. Hopefully you found these tips interesting and helpful.

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By Ripple Creek Homes 6-29-2023