Weeds
The definition of a weed is very broad – “a plant that grows where you don’t want it to grow.” However, pay attention to the invasive noxious weeds which are described as a raging biological wildfire – out of control, spreading rapidly, and causing enormous economic losses.
Broadleaves
Bindweed, puncture vine, burr buttercup, thistle, etc.
Grass
Aannual and perennial grass weeds
Trees
Invasive species that you shouldn’t plant
Common weeds in Utah
Broadleaves
Some of them are noxiously invasive but some of them are edible, even with medicinal properties. Learn more at Utah Weed Association.
Bindweed
This resilient perennial weed is the worst nightmare due to its widespread root system.
Thistle
Depending on the species, they can spread by roots or seeds.
Goathead
You will know if you have this in your backyard by checking your shoes, or when you step on it…
Mallow
The secretion of the deep taproot used to make marshmallows…
Dandelion
This edible weed is loved by some but hated by majority due to its easy spreading nature.
Purslane
It’s an edible succulent so the stems and leaves are thicker.
Burr buttercup
The yellow flower in early spring is the inception of nightmare…
Spurge
Looks like Purslane but it got hairy stems and milky sap when you snap it. Not edible.
Unwanted ones in your lawn
Grass
Their invasive roots of grassy weeds often overtake healthy root systems in the soil, and grow faster than the grass in your lawn.
Crabgrass
As an annual weed grass, crabgrass dies off each year and regrows from seeds.
Goosegrass
This weed grows flat and wide, has thick blades with round, white stems at the base.
Foxtail
Pet owner’s worst nightmare – their seeds can travel into dogs’/cats’ body.
The ones you don’t want to plant
Trees
Not all the trees are great for your backyard. Some species are invasive and the seeds can spread easily. Some have weak structures that can break during snow storms or in high wind.
Siberian elm
This fast-growing tree can be up to 70′. Its weak wood and branch structure can cause problems.
Russian Olive
It’s aggressively competitive, even on poor soils.