All Things Weeds

Weeds can be harmless—or they can become one of the biggest threats to your landscape. Welcome to Weed Central, your guide to understanding the weeds and invasive plants that impact Pacific Northwest landscapes. Learn how to identify common problem species, understand why they spread, discover the damage they cause to native ecosystems, and find the best methods for removing them so your native plants can thrive.

Why Are There So Many Weeds?

When we rebuild soil, add organic matter, and create the right conditions for growth, everything wants to grow.

Learn more about weeds in the landscape.

Weeds?

Not Every Weed Is a Problem

One of the biggest mistakes in a young rewilded landscape is trying to remove every plant that appears.

Take this quiz to find out if it's harmful or needs to be pulled.

The Invasives That Need Your Attention

Some plants are not temporary visitors. They're aggressive invaders and can overwhelm a young restoration project.

Learn more about common invasive plants in Portland.

Invasive Plants

Timing Matters

The best weed management happens when we work with nature.

Early Spring

Soil is soft, Roots come out more easily, Plants are actively growing

Late Fall

Soil moisture returns, Many plants are slowing down, Good time for larger removal projects

Weeds?

Why We Do Not Weed Constantly

A rewilded landscape is not a traditional garden that needs constant cleaning.

Pulling everything every week can slow progress.

The goal is a healthy, competitive ecosystem.

Weeds?

Watering and Supporting Growth

Young native plants need support while their roots establish and require regular watering during the first two summers. As plants mature, watering can gradually decrease as deeper roots develop and the ecosystem becomes more drought-resilient.