Blessed Thistle

» mastiffs2005 - Hi Sherry!

I'm having trouble with the names of "weeds" *smile* Is thistle the tall spikey plant with purple tops? I've noticed more and more than what most people whack down or pour "weed-b-gone" on are what I NEED! LOL I'm having lots of troubles growing regular herbs, so I think I'm going to start a weed garden. Only trouble is... how do I get the weeds to grow in my yard? I don't have a single thistle (if it's what I think it is), but they are in abundance all along the sides of the road I live on. Can I transplant them?

Thanks,
Darlene

-- posted by mastiffs2005

Permalink Print Discussion

» Azyza - Well...

A woman after my own heart! LOL

Yes, Thistle are the tall spiny spiky purpley ones that grow anywhere from 3'-6' tall along roadways. Kepp in mind there are different kinds of thistle, of course...the Blessed Thistle in the article never quite goes purple, for example, but stays green with just a hint of flower. I adore the purple ones though...and people think I'm nuts for it! LOL

And you're right, those 'weeds' everyone is working to eradicate are exactly the wildflowers and herbs the rest of us want!

However, I don't recommend gathering from roadsides for two reasons...1) the polution absorbed from car fumes make these herbs ones you DON'T want to internalize, and 2) That old saying about taking wildflowers from the wild...you know, if *everyone* did, they'd all be gone...so...

I'd suggest, if you can't find the plants in your garden center, try growing them from seed (remember, these are those 'hardy weeds' that grow in almost any condition, so they do well from seed!) and if you can't buy the seed, wait until those you find in the wild - back off the road a bit - go to seed, and then gather your own for planting...and that way, there's some for you, and plenty more for the roadsides!

-- posted by Azyza

Permalink Print Discussion

» mastiffs2005 - Cool!

Thanks so much for the great answer! I'll look for seeds, and failing all else, find one of my neighbors who think they're plagued and offer to whack their intruders down for them *wicked grin*

I'll be back *smile*
Darlene

-- posted by mastiffs2005

Permalink Print Discussion