Top 20 Most Common Weeds in Estonia

Estonia's temperate climate with its moist summers and cold winters creates an ideal environment for a variety of garden weeds. Amongst the most commonly encountered are Creeping thistle, known for its rapid growth and resilience, Common plantain, which outcompetes native flora, and Orchard grass, notorious for its pervasive root system. These invasive weeds pose a significant challenge to gardeners and landscapers striving to maintain biodiverse and healthy gardens.

Most Common Weeds

1. Creeping thistle

This aggressive weed spreads across grasslands and fields via underground roots that creep horizontally, some for more than 5 m. It can cause major problems to agriculture if its growth is left unchecked. Its seeds feed many birds as well as pest insects. Creeping thistle is generally considered a noxious weed even in its native territory.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

2. Common plantain

While native to Europe, the common plantain was one of the first plants to reach North America through early European explorers. Native Americans have referred to Plantago major as 'white man's footprint', as it disrupted many local ecosystems by its introduction.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

3. Stinging nettle

Although the stinging nettle has a variety of uses it is best known for its eponymous sting. It has sharp defensive hairs on its leaves and stems which will release pain-inducing chemicals when touched. Nevertheless, Dorset, England hosts an annual World Nettle Eating Championship, which started with a debate between two farmers over the severity of their nettle infestations. To consume them more safely, stinging nettles must be thoroughly boiled.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

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4. Orchard grass

Orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata) is native to Eurasia and was introduced to North America around the 18th century as a forage grass. Now it is widely naturalized in the U.S., Australia, and New Zealand. It is also called "cat grass" because our feline friends love to chew on it.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

5. Shepherd's purse

Shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) is native to Eastern Europe and Asia minor. Having spread and become naturalized around the world, this herbaceous plant is typically considered a weed. Shepherd's purse is considered a "protocarnivore" because it attracts nematodes (small worms in the soil) and poisons them with its seeds. By eliminating nematodes, this plant enriches the surrounding soil.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

6. Common dandelion

*Taraxacum officinale*, widely known as common dandelion, is a herbaceous perennial that can be found in temperate regions all over the world, in habitats with moist soils. The most popular feature of this plant is its fruits, furry spheres that are easily carried by the wind. Although it is generally considered a weed, common dandelion is actually edible and very nutritious.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

7. Brown knapweed

Brown knapweed (Centaurea jacea) is a perennial flowering plant that grows in woodland clearings, yards, ditches, and pastures. Brown knapweed is native to Europe. This plant is categorized as an invasive species in most places where it grows.

8. Common mugwort

Common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is an herbaceous plant often found in nitrogen-rich soils. The plant's scent is reportedly a mild insect repellant. Common mugwort is used as an offering in Nepalese temples. Tradition holds that it has cleansing properties, so believers also use it to sweep their floors to give them both a spiritual and physical cleaning.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

9. Bird vetch

Bird vetch (Vicia cracca) is a flowering species of vetch native to Europe and Asia. In North America, bird vetch is considered an invasive species and a weed. In these environments, the flowering plant often grows in industrial disturbed environments like oil fields.

10. Pineapple weed

Pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea) is a common weed with cute cone shape "flowers", which are actually composed of many tubular yellow-green small flowers. Its leaves give off a sweet smell when crushed. The scent is regarded as somewhere between that of pineapple and chamomile - thus the plant's common names.

11. Meadow buttercup

Meadow buttercup (Ranunculus acris) is a flowering plant native to Europe. It has gained many nicknames related to its yellow flowers and ubiquity in meadow-like environments. Meadow buttercup is moderately toxic to both humans and livestock.

12. Lambsquarters

Lambsquarters has many other names, including pigweed, goosefoot, and bacon weed. This plant seems to appear out of nowhere and is considered by many to be a pesky weed. However, the greens of this plant are edible, can be prepared similar to spinach, and are packed with nutrients.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

13. Creeping buttercup

While originally used as an ornamental plant around the world, the creeping buttercup is now considered invasive in many places. Distribution usually occurs through the transportation of hay, making control difficult. The creeping buttercup is considered poisonous and can cause skin blistering.

14. Black medick

The black medick plant matures anywhere from 15 to 79 cm in height, with stems that lie flat at the beginning of growth and later stand up to be erect. The black medick is a plant known for making excellent honey. It is sometimes planted specifically for this purpose. It is also a good pasture plant for livestock feed; however, it is not overly palatable to cattle.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

15. White campion

White campion (Silene latifolia) is a flowering plant native to Europe and Africa but now widely naturalized in the US as a common weed. It grows in the wild in alkaline soils in uninhabited environments and prefers sunny areas.

16. Field pansy

Field pansy (Viola arvensis) is an annual or perennial flower that blooms from spring to summer with fragrant two-tone flowers in gold and yellow or purple and lavender. Nectar from the flowers attracts butterflies and bees. Grows in full sun or partial shade. Deadhead blooms to encourage more flowering.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

17. Common chickweed

The common chickweed gets its name due to the fact that chickens love to eat it, though they're not alone in that respect. Though it's often considered a nuisance weed, most parts of this plant can be consumed raw or cooked and used similar to spinach. The saponins in common chickweed are slightly toxic but will only have an effect if ingested in huge quantities.

Growth Rate:

Rapid

18. Curly dock

Rumex crispus, commonly known as curly dock, is a perennial plant that grows in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It is a very adaptable plant, flourishing in a variety of different habitats including roadsides, the edges of woodlands, meadows, and shorelines. Some moth species like to lay their eggs on curly dock leaves.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

19. Yellow rocket

Yellow rocket is a biannual herb endemic to Europe. Saint Barbara, the patron saint of artillerymen and mining workers, inspired the name Barbarea. This plant's leaves are edible, whether raw or cooked. It also has a natural resistance to several bug species.

Growth Rate:

Moderate

20. Timothy

Timothy (*Phleum pratense*) is a perennial grass that grows from 61 to 122 cm tall. Timothy is grown for its hay, and it is a favorite of insects and farmers. This species is an irritant to many allergy sufferers. The seed heads are about 40 cm long with spiked flowers that bloom in summer. Caterpillars feed on this grass, and it also provides a habitat for other insects.

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Estonia's environment, with its diverse climate and rich, lush landscapes, creates an apt setting for a variety of flora, including some toxic plants. Factors like its humid summers and cold winters can support the growth of poisonous species. The prevalence of , , and raises concerns, highlighting the region's potential favorability for nurturing plants that could be harmful to both humans and wildlife.

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Estonia's climate and soil provide a conducive environment for native flowers to flourish. Among the captivating blooms are , , and . These flowers add to the visual allure of the region and hold symbolic and ecological significance. Authentic intel from trusted sources validates their presence and importance in Estonia's flora.

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As Estonia thaws from winter's embrace, Spring breathes life into its landscapes, cueing a tapestry of floral splendor. Among the first to unfurl are , a symbol of rebirth, , painting the scenery with vibrant hues, and , blanketing the awakening earth. These blooms are not just stunning, but also signal the renewal of nature's rhythms.

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Spring in Estonia awakens with a surge of life, as warming sunlight and gentle rains nurture blossoming orchards. Amid this season of renewal, the , , and reach maturity, offering a burst of fresh flavors to herald the end of winter. These fruits, integral to the local cuisine and culture, embody the essence of Spring's promise of abundance and new beginnings.

Most Common Fruits

Estonia's cool temperate climate, with its mild summers and cold winters, coupled with fertile soils, favors the cultivation of hardy local fruit plants. Plants such as , , and not only thrive in these conditions but are also ingrained in Estonian culture, often used in traditional recipes and festivities. These fruits are much more than agricultural products; they are a cherished part of Estonia's horticultural heritage.

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Estonia's climatic and soil conditions are conducive to the growth of various native trees. Among them, , , and stand tall and hold significance in the region. These emblematic trees contribute to the cultural fabric and ecology of Estonia.

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In the verdant tapestry of Estonia's temperate climate, replete with fertile soils and diverse terrains, towering tree species thrive under amply lit skies and lengthy growing seasons. Among the arboreal giants, , , and stand as natural monuments, not only scraping the heavens but also embodying the ecological and historical essence of the region. These leafy titans symbolize growth, stability, and the irrefutable grandeur of Estonia's forests.

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In Estonia, you can find Meadowsweet, Common yarrow, Florist kalanchoe, Jade plant, Madagascar dragon tree, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.