I enjoyed last week’s letter titled “Make use of a good weed” submitted by Dale Saethre. Her whimsical tale of the use of tansy as a child was enlightening.
We will continue to spend many thousands of dollars annually in a futile attempt to control non-native plants, many of which have become “naturalized” into our environment. Why not learn to appreciate them?
With climate change in mind, perhaps some of these plants are a beneficial natural alteration of our landscape. Some native plants are already in decline…are non-native species meant to replace them? How would we know? Man’s attempt to control nature has often led to unforeseen consequences.
In keeping with Ms. Saethre’s appreciation of tansy, please consider the following: The Top Ten Reasons To Like Non-Native Invasive Plants
10. They’re quiet and don’t obscure the night sky
9. They make attractive flower arrangements
8. They give cover for ground nesting birds
7. They provide seeds for birds and small mammals
6. They produce nectar for hummingbirds
5. They supply pollen for bees
4. They quickly establish to provide erosion control
3. They add color to roadsides and fields enhancing tourism
2. They’re natural, organic and gluten free And the number one reason to like non-native invasive plants:
1. They do less harm to the environment than humans
Bob LaMettry
Grand Marais
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