A Field Guide to Weeds

Field Guides

• Field guides to weeds are commonly published by science academies and universities. Gardening societies and plant-interest groups collect information and publish weed identification guides as well. Many of these guides are available in their entirety online or in hard-copy form at bookstores and public libraries.

Noxious Plants

• Field guides identify weeds that are poisonous, or have spines or burrs that are injurious to people and pets. This is important information because some weeds don't look dangerous but can be deadly. Some invasive weed species need proper identification because they are legally required to be eradicated.

Yard Weeds

• Field guides are necessary to differentiate between garden plants and weeds and between lawn grasses and invasive weed grasses, such as crabgrass and Johnson grass. With proper identification, the right weed killers can be selected and used.