NATIONAL WEED APPRECIATION DAY; MARCH 28

HISTORY OF NATIONAL WEED APPRECIATION DAY

The origin of National Weed Appreciation day is unknown. However, the acknowledgment of the benefits and value of weeds can be traced back to history. Dandelions, which are common garden weeds, remained an important component of traditional Chinese medicine for at least a thousand years. Dandelion roots and leaves were used as a tonic to remove toxins from the bloodstream to improve the function of the digestive system. The plants were also appreciated for their beauty and were used to make dye. 

Chickweed is another common weed despised by many, almost to the point of violence. There are many species of this awesome plant. The most common chickweed is native to Europe. The herb is rich in minerals, including copper and iron, and vitamins A, B, and C. Chickweed has a long history of use as a nutritious edible green by ancient Greeks. It was also commonly consumed in ancient Ireland.

Some weeds bloom beautifully, some are even edible, and some of them act as a fertilizer for the soil. Although the origin is unknown, the message of National Weed Appreciation Day is clear — appreciate them and try to find out about their value instead of just plucking them out.

NATIONAL WEED APPRECIATION DAY TIMELINE

10,000 B.C.Evolution of Weeds

Weeds evolve in response to the Neolithic agricultural revolution approximately 12,000 years ago.

1956Society on Weed Science

The first learned society on weed science, The Weed Science Society of America is established.

2000sDiscovery of Earliest Weeds

The first weeds are discovered from an excavation 23,000 years ago at an old Israeli site known as Ohalo II.

2017Journal on Weed Science

The publication of three WSSA journals on weed science begins.

NATIONAL WEED APPRECIATION DAY FAQS

What are the most common garden weeds?

Dandelion, common daisy, clover, and nettle are some of the most common weeds that you can find in your garden. 

Are weeds harmful to plants?

Certain weeds are parasitic plants, which means they use other plants as hosts to obtain nutrients, so beware of them. The catch here is to identify beneficial weeds and appreciate those. 

Are weeds good for soil?

Yes, they help prevent erosion and the roots of certain weeds go so deep that they are able to mine minerals from far below the surface and make them more accessible to other plants.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL WEED APPRECIATION DAY

1. Weeds are good for us. Weeds can be a bummer and some people aren’t thrilled with them appearing in their gardens but there are many more benefits to weeds than downsides. They act as a fertilizer for the soil, repel pests, and provide food for microbes and animals.
2. Some weeds are beautiful. One of the first plants to sprout in spring, with vibrant pops of yellow and downy balls of seeds — yes, we’re talking about dandelions! Dandelions are typically classified as flowers, but they are perennial weeds. Dandelions add color to the drab landscape of early spring and the flower is edible.
3. The only difference between a flower and a weed is the judgment. A weed is just a plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered. So, like numerous other plants, we don’t mind it growing in our yard!