Common weeds in the US can be defined as plants that are growing where they are not wanted, causing a nuisance in gardens, lawns, and croplands.
They not only detract from the aesthetic appearance of an area but can also compete with desired plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight.
In the United States, there are a variety of weeds that are considered to be particularly troublesome due to their ability to spread rapidly and their hardiness.
#1 Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
One of the most well-known weeds in the US is the dandelion. These bright yellow-flowered plants are a common sight in lawns, gardens, and along roadsides. Dandelions have deep taproots and a rosette of leaves that can grow up to 8 inches in diameter.
The plant reproduces through seeds that are dispersed by the wind. In addition to being a nuisance in lawns, dandelions are also considered to be a pest in croplands as they can compete with crops for resources.
#2 Common Chickweed (Stellaria media)
Another common weed in the US is the common chickweed. This plant is a low-growing annual or perennial with small, white flowers. Chickweed is often found in gardens, lawns, and along the edges of fields.
It is particularly troublesome in the cooler months when it is one of the few green plants visible in the landscape. Chickweed can reproduce both by seed and stem fragments and can be hard to remove from the lawn.
#3 Plantain (Plantago major)
Plantain is a common weed found in lawns, gardens, and along roadsides. This low-growing plant has broad leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers.
The leaves of the plantain are thick and contain a high amount of cellulose which is why it is hard to remove. Plantains are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, making them a common weed.
#4 Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia)
Common ragweed is a common weed found in croplands, gardens, and along roadsides. This annual plant can grow up to 10 feet tall, and it produces a large amount of pollen that can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Ragweed reproduces by seed and can produce up to 150,000 seeds per plant. This weed can also be a problem in some farms because its pollen can damage the quality and yield of some crops.
#5 Wild Onion/ Garlic (Allium canadense)
Wild onion and wild garlic are common weeds found in lawns and gardens. These plants are similar to domestic onions and garlic and can be identified by their strong onion/garlic smell when the leaves are crushed.
They reproduce through bulbs and can be difficult to remove because the bulbs are deep in the ground.
In conclusion
Weeds can be a nuisance for homeowners and farmers alike. Understanding the most common weeds in your area and how to identify them is important in order to effectively control them.
While it is not always possible to completely eliminate weeds from your landscape, maintaining a healthy lawn and garden through proper watering, fertilizing, and mowing can help to reduce their numbers.
Additionally, hand-pulling and using weed-specific herbicides can be effective in controlling the growth of weeds. However, it is important to note that chemical control of weeds should be done under professional supervision and with safety precautions.
