Weed Appreciation Day

Weed Appreciation Day is celebrated every year on March 28 to recognize the importance of weeds in our ecosystems and our lives. Not all weeds are undesirable; some of them are really beneficial and are being used for centuries.

History of Weed Appreciation Day

The origin of Weed Appreciation day is unknown. However, recognition of the benefits and value of weeds can be traced back to history. Dandelion, a popular weed, has been an important item of traditional Chinese medicine for a thousand years. Its root and leaves are considered as a tonic to remove toxins from the blood in order to improve the function of the digestive system. These plants are also prized for their beauty and are used to make dyes.

Chickweed is also a common weed that is despised. There are many species of this wonderful plant. The most popular chickweed originated in Europe. This herb is rich in minerals, including copper and iron, and vitamins A, B, and C. Chickweed has a long history of being used by the ancient Greeks as a nutritious green vegetable in ancient Ireland.

Some of them bloom beautifully, some are possible to eat, and some are good for the soil. Although the provenance is unknown, the message of Weeds Appreciation Day is clear, appreciate them and try to learn their value instead of just spitting them out.

Why Weed Appreciation Day?

A weed is a plant that grows in any place. It could even be the flowers that grow in your vegetable garden. The word weed usually has a negative connotation attached to it.

We need to determine which is good, which is bad for the surrounding environment. To do so, we need to acquire certain knowledge. And Weed Appreciation Day is all about celebrating and absorbing that knowledge.

A variety of weeds with beautiful flowers and colors are enjoyed as they grow in the garden. While some varieties are a rich source of nutrients and are packed with deliciousness and flavor. There is little medical benefit as well. We are ignorant that we do not realize their importance and treat them as a wild pest.

Weeds are also an important part of our ecosystem. They provide us with the oxygen we breathe in and absorb the carbon dioxide we exhale. They uses for birds and insects. They also provide ground cover, preventing soil erosion and depletion. Overall, they're pretty good for the environment.

Our ancestors used to treat some diseases with the help of wild plants and weeds. They use it in the form of pastes, herbs, or concoctions with these. Some of them are used to date to treat various diseases. Many weeds are used as an herb in food to enhance its flavor and nutrition. The medicinal value of some forms has yet to be discovered by man.

Another common misconception about Weed Appreciation Day is that it is often confused with something related to marijuana. Today, cannabis is often referred to as a weed, which leads to confusion. However, it has a day dedicated to itself.

Weed Appreciation Day encourages us to become familiar with weeds and understand their value. This special day helps us celebrate the usefulness and benefits of weeds, which are often uprooted, burned or ignored. It helps us capture the beautiful forms of weeds and forces us to think twice before killing them the next time.

Reasons for Weed Appreciation Day being loved

Weeds are good for us

Weeds can be a nuisance and some people don't enjoy having them in their garden, but weeds have more benefits than disadvantages. They act as a fertilizer for the soil, repelling pests and providing food for microorganisms and animals.

Some weeds are so beautiful

One of the first plants to sprout in spring, with clusters of yellow seeds and bright morning dew - yes, we're talking dandelions! Dandelions are generally classified as flowers, but they are perennial weeds. Dandelions add color to the dreary landscape of early spring and the flowers are edible.

A flower is different from a weed

Weeds are just an undiscovered plant species. So, like many other plants, we don't mind it growing in our yard!

Interesting facts about Weed Appreciation Day

Below are some truths about some common weeds and find out how amazing they are:

• Of the total 250,000 species of plants that exist on our planet, 80,000 are considered weeds.
• Purslane and amaranth are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, proteins and more.
• Dandelions are the food of many birds and insects. It is a rich source of calcium and nitrogen and helps to keep the soil fertile thanks to its roots. Dandelion wine is as great as it sounds.
• Burdock is also a common edible weed, used in soups and medicines.
• Chickweed is also rich in vitamins along with a delicious taste.
• Centella asiatica is an edible aquatic plant that can be eaten in salads or used as a jelly.
• Lamb's Quarter or gooseberries can be used as a substitute for spinach and taste great in lettuce salads. It is also rich in protein and Vitamin A.
• Chicory is a small plant with cute bright blue flowers. A drink made from its roots is very popular in the south, especially in Louisiana.
• Queen Anne's Lace is a famous flower in the English Garden. But, it is considered a weed in the United States.
• Weeds protect crops against harmful pests and diseases and prevent soil erosion. They also reduce moisture loss in the soil.

How to celebrate Weed Appreciation Day

Discover the benefits

Spend Weed Appreciation Day on learning about the benefits of weeds to our life and our ecosystems. Go out into your garden, get your phone out, look for the weeds growing there and read them. We are sure that you will find all kinds of interesting information about what is growing in your yard!

Appreciate the weeds growing in your garden

This day is a reminder to appreciate weeds. Perhaps, you might discover what you once thought to be a nasty weed, is actually a wonderful new surprise living on your lawn. So embrace your spontaneous flowers!

Share knowledge

Knowledge increases in many ways when it is shared! Do not forget to share your knowledge about weeds on social media by using the hashtag #WeedAppreciationDay to spread others.