Learning From Your Weeds

Existing vegetation in the form of weeds can tell you much about the condition of your soil. Starting with a weed identification guide or a list of local weed species from your local CES, you can cross reference the list with the weeds in your garden to learn about your soil.

Weeds are often very good indicators of potential soil fertility problems in your garden. In addition weeds can also give clues about nutrient deficiencies in the garden.

As you look into the possible meanings behind the weeds in your garden keep the following in mind:

• A few single weeds do not tell a story. Look for larger and consistent populations of the same species. If multiple weeds with similar soil preferences dominate an area of the garden then listen to what they are telling you.
• Perennial weeds are much better indicators of soil conditions than are annual weeds.
• Many weeds can tolerate a rather large range of conditions, but some are more specific in what they require to grow.

For more information on learning from weeds see our chart of Indicator Weeds and Soil Conditions.