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is this something to be removed?

GrassyKnollGrassyKnoll Posts: 95
in Problem solving
i seem to have a lot of them sprouting up but I don't like to pull stuff out until I know I don't want it .

Posts

  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,385
    Yes, it's one of the willowherbs and best removed before the fluffy seeds go everywhere.
    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • GrassyKnollGrassyKnoll Posts: 95

  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,385
    Another willowherb, different type, possibly Epilobium hirsutum (Great Willowherb.)  They are difficult to id before they flower - some likey candidates here:https://www.naturespot.org.uk/taxonomy/term/19621

    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • Paul B3Paul B3 Posts: 3,154
    BobThe Gardener is absolutely correct ; get rid before they flower as wind dispersal (like Dandelions) is a very successful way to procreate .
  • GrassyKnollGrassyKnoll Posts: 95
    Thanks for your help.  I'm not totally against these to be honest and I really like dandelions on my lawn and positively encourage them. 

    I will pull these out from a rockery I have (first picture) but the second pic is a bare patch that I want to grow wildflowers so I might let it remain there .
  • Paul B3Paul B3 Posts: 3,154
    I recall driving home from somewhere last Autumn ; there was an entire verge of Epilobium sp. by the roadside .
    The foliage has turned ruby-red and many were still flowering ; quite an impressive sight .
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