The Wonderful World of Weeds

Type

Botany

Grade Level

8-12

Difficulty Level

Medium

Cost

Minimal

Safety Issues

• Adult supervision recommended when searching the internet.
• Watch for allergies.

Project Time Frame

4-6 weeks

Objective

This project explores the properties of weeds.

Project Goals

• To define weeds
• To identify and classify different types of weeds.
• To discover their harmful influences on other plants, as well as their practical applications.
• To develop new uses for weeds.

Materials and Equipment

• Computer with internet access
• Color printer
• Digital camera
• Assorted weed samples
• Magnifying glass
• Microscope (optional)
• Typical office/craft supplies (such as paper, pens & poster-board)

Introduction

Weeds are generally described as pesky, unwanted plants that seem to appear out of nowhere, spread like celebrity news, and destroy more popular plants in their wake.  Weeds are fast growing nuisances that are very hard to get rid of.  But seen in another light, perhaps weeds have some value.  In that sense, one man’s weed is another man’s garden.  This project explores some of the practical uses of weeds.

Research Questions

• What is the definition of a weed?
• How do weeds end up in people’s gardens?
• What are the commercial possibilities of weeds?
• What are the medicinal uses and/or nutritional values of weeds?
• Can you think of any other benefits of weeds growing in your garden?

Terms and Concepts to Start Background Research

• Weeds
• Horticulture

Experimental Procedure

1. Research related materials (see bibliography below)
2. Select 20-30 different weed specimens.
3. Search, print and label photos of weeds you find interesting.
4. Examine, identify, categorize, and photograph each specimen you collected.
5. Study the properties of each individual plant.  Record all observations.
6. Preserve your specimens by drying them (optional).
7. Invent or discover a new useful purpose for weeds.
8. Design a test or demonstration of your new idea.
9. Interpret your results in a detailed report.
10. Show results visually using photos taken throughout the course of the experiment.
11. Include beautiful weed arrangements in your science fair display.

Bibliography

 Virginia Tech Weed Identification Guide - Southeast USA Weeds of North America Wikipedia Useful weeds