Most Denver gardeners curse thistle, bindweed and other garden weeds. They build raised beds so they don't have to deal with them. They burn, dig and mow them down. Those pesky things come back with a vengeance, of course. Nobody ever said weeds were our friends. Still, there are benefits to weeds in the garden. Don't believe me? Consider this:
1. Weeds keep us in shape. Here in Denver we love to hike, bike and much more. All that weed removal builds muscle and burns fat. I love the feeling a hard days work in the garden gives me. Plus, it keeps me in shape for all the fun physical activities I enjoy.
2. Weeds hone our gardening skills. Denver gardeners take great pride in their work. They give us experience and a sense of accomplishment. Is there anything more satisfying than freeing the garden of stubborn weeds? Isn't it awesome to look down the row and see nothing but the crops you planted?
3. Weeds teach us patience. Denver gardeners require a lot of that particular virtue. We have to wait all winter to engage in our favorite activity. Those occasional warm winter days taunt us with spring expectations. Yet, we have to wait for seeds to take hold, for watering time, for harvest time and for just about everything else that happens in the garden. Why not practice patience by fighting weeds?
4. Weeds keep us humble. Just when you think you know everything about Denver gardening, along comes another stubborn weed to deal with. It seems weeds are more adaptable here than our intentional crops. Don't stress about it. The garden was never meant to be perfect. Weeds remind us that we're not so perfect either.
5. Weeds keep us occupied. When there's nothing to plant, water or fertilize, you can always weed. Weeding is the best excuse ever to work in the garden. Weeding helps you avoid all kinds of indoor tasks. Can't let the weeds take over, after all. Forget about the dishes and the laundry. You have to save the tomatoes from those dreadful weeds.
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