Unknown Plant/Weed in Garden Bed - Ask Extension
While weeding the garden bed, I noticed this very large plant/weed. Smaller offspring were scattered in the front of the bed, and I pulled those. Be...
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Unknown Plant/Weed in Garden Bed #835124
Asked June 12, 2023, 8:46 AM EDT
While weeding the garden bed, I noticed this very large plant/weed. Smaller offspring were scattered in the front of the bed, and I pulled those. Before I touch this, I want to be sure what I am touching is not hogweed. If it is hogweed, I would like some advice.
Thank you so much for assisting me!
Macomb County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Stacey -
In my research, I believe what you have is mugwort: Artemisia vulgaris. This plant (weed) is an aromatic herb, and is known as an insect repellent. It reproduces mostly by rhizomes. Here are some identifying characteristics: https://ipm.cahnr.uconn.edu/invasive_plants_common_mugwort/
Since I am not in your garden looking at the plant, be sure to check this, and compare it to the Giant Hogweed images and identifying characteristics: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/giant-hogweed-maryland-identification-management
It's best to be sure of what you have before you try to eradicate it. In any case, be sure to use good gloves and wear long sleeves when dealing with any unknown weed.
Please respond if you are still unsure of the identification.
I hope this helps.
In my research, I believe what you have is mugwort: Artemisia vulgaris. This plant (weed) is an aromatic herb, and is known as an insect repellent. It reproduces mostly by rhizomes. Here are some identifying characteristics: https://ipm.cahnr.uconn.edu/invasive_plants_common_mugwort/
Since I am not in your garden looking at the plant, be sure to check this, and compare it to the Giant Hogweed images and identifying characteristics: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/giant-hogweed-maryland-identification-management
It's best to be sure of what you have before you try to eradicate it. In any case, be sure to use good gloves and wear long sleeves when dealing with any unknown weed.
Please respond if you are still unsure of the identification.
I hope this helps.
