Chickweed deserves it’s own post – there’s just too much to say to have it hidden among other herbs.
I’ve taught classes where I have brought chickweed growing in a pot to show, and had people convinced they’ve never seen it before. I believe they have, they’re just not used to seeing it that up-close-and-personal, or perhaps that well taken care of. The plant lies low and trails the ground, the perfect ground cover. It is easy to pull up and get rid of, but don’t be so quick to try to eradicate it. It is one of my most valued plants (weed or no weed). Learn what it looks like and treat it with the respect it deserves.
Hated by many gardeners, chickweed can be transformed from a pest to a deliciously tender ‘vegetable’ by anyone with an open mind. Hardy, self seeds, highly recommended. With a delicate flavour, chickweed is a nutritional power house: calcium, essential fatty acid, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, sulfur, zinc, vitamins B1 B2 B3, C and E.
The common Chickweed that we so often find in our gardens, is a tender plant, branching out from a central root. The small leaves are bright green and sometimes referred to as ‘mouse ears’. The flowers are tiny, white and star like. Although its an annual, chickweed self seeds and so if you’re lucky, you’ll get it again next year. Common in most gardens, especially in damp partly shady areas.
If you’re absolutely certain you don’t want it next year, simply continue to pull it out whenever you see it, and DON’T let it go to seed. Eventually you’ll wear it down. I on the other hand – want it; I let it go to seed so I can collect the seed.
Chickweed is super easy to eat right on the spot while you’re working in the garden. Be careful not to pull it up by the root as you don’t want to kill it. I know, that is contrary to what you’re naturally inclined to want to do with ‘weeds’, but once you understand and experience the value of chickweed, it will be a valuable and protected plant in your garden. Coarsely chop to add to a salad, throw into a smoothie or steam with other greens. There is no shortage of ways you can incorporate chickweed into your daily summer diet, and you will feel better for it. I promise.
It normally grows in wet meadows, woodlands, and in marshes where the soil is moist and fertile with full sun. It is considered protected in the wild, and as most native plants are endangered, it should never be picked and transplanted.
The best way to finally get rid of a ‘weed’ that annoyed you long enough – is to finally find a use for it. Works every time. LOL
Bottom line:
Chickweed wants to be your friend. So make friends with it, and help it out if you can.
I hope you give Chickweed a chance to impress you.
And when you do, have fun finding new ways to use it.
I’d love to hear your ideas.
Warmly,
Cindy Suelzle
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