No Mow March

I hope you have all participated in No Mow March. Here are some facts about those "weeds" that you'd be mowing over that are often the first and only source of nectar for the honey bees that we depend on. 
Chickweed:

1. Chickweed (Stellaria media) is an edible plant that is often considered a weed.
2. Chickweed is native to Europe, but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world.
3. Chickweed has small white flowers and oval-shaped leaves that are arranged in pairs.
4. Chickweed is often used in herbal medicine to treat skin irritations, respiratory problems, and digestive issues.

Purple Dead Nettle:

1. Purple dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) is a common weed in the mint family.
2. Purple dead nettle has purple flowers and leaves that are heart-shaped and toothed.
3. Purple dead nettle is often found in moist, shady areas.
4. Purple dead nettle is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
5. Purple Dead Nettle has superb medicinal benefits for the respiratory system. 

Henbit:

1. Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) is another member of the mint family and is also a common weed.
2. Henbit has small pink or purple flowers and leaves that are rounded and slightly toothed.
3. Henbit is often found in disturbed areas, such as gardens, fields, and roadsides.
4. Henbit is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

Dandelion:

1. Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) are well-known weeds that are found in many parts of the world.
2. Dandelions have bright yellow flowers and leaves that are toothed and can grow up to 30cm long.
3. Dandelions are considered beneficial to pollinators and can be used as food for humans and animals.
4. Dandelions have a deep taproot that makes them difficult to remove by hand.
5. Dandelions leaves can be used for salads and the flowers are often used for jellies and tinctures. 

Buttercup:

1. Buttercups (Ranunculus spp.) are found in many parts of the world and are often considered weeds.
2. Buttercups have yellow or white flowers and leaves that are divided and toothed.
3. Buttercups are often found in moist areas, such as wetlands, meadows, and along stream banks.
4. Buttercups are toxic to livestock and humans if ingested in large quantities.

White Clover:

1. White clover (Trifolium repens) is a common weed found in lawns and gardens.
2. White clover has white or pink flowers and leaves that are divided into three leaflets.
3. White clover is often used as a cover crop and is beneficial to pollinators.
4. White clover is resistant to drought and can improve soil fertility.
5. White clover can be a great first source of nectar for pollinators. 

Ground Ivy:

1. Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) is a low-growing perennial weed that is often found in lawns and gardens.
2. Ground ivy has purple flowers and leaves that are round or kidney-shaped with scalloped edges.
3. Ground ivy is often used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory problems and digestive issues.
4. Ground ivy can be difficult to control due to its extensive root system.
5. Ground ivy can be a first source of nectar for pollinators.