Shepherd's Purse known by it's binomial name of Capsella bursa-pastoris is typically found in growing zones 4-7. it is in the Brassicaceae family (aka mustard) Originally from Asia and used medicinally for centuries, this herb contains the isothiocyanate compound sulforaphane. This organic compound is found in the tangy herbs such as onions, mustard, horseradish, and of course shepherd's purse. It thrives in moist, fertile soils or dry, sandy areas in lawns, barnyards, roadsides, and waste areas. (Hayes)

This plant is highly fond of people and can be found in the areas where there is activity of humans. In actuality this plant spreads as people walk through areas and was dubbed "White Man's Foot" as Europeans traveled across the states and took it with them.

Purslane has a binomial name of Portulaca oleracea. Typically found in growing zones 8-10, It is an annual herb  is easily grown and can be propagated by seed or cutting and once it is sprouted you can forget about it as it is used to taking care of itself. It likes clear ground with partial to full sun and does not have a soil preference per se but it tends to like drier soil. When propagating never cover the seed or cutting with soil as it needs light in order to germinate. (Robinson) Harvest regularly so as to avoid its invasive personality and if needingto control it harvest before it flowers.

Oh those pesky weeds! So many gardeners pull them out, sometimes one by one and sometimes by the bunch. All of our life we are told they are a useless nuisance, a thing we must rid our gardens and yard of. Who perpetuated this as a truth? It could be the biggest purveyors of pesticides. I will let you think about that. In the meantime I have gathered some weeds that are absolutely beneficial to us all. We will start with the most common weed. Dandelion!