In the herbaceous border a fine patch of Coreopsis verticillata ‘Grandiflora’ is attracting pollinating insects as well as the attention of visitors due to the clear bright yellow swath of flowers topping off these compact plants

In contrast the warmth of the soil is allowing weed seeds to germinate giving rise to many unwanted visitors in cultivated soil. When dry run your eye over the border and gently tease out germinating seedlings. When they reach the size of this Sow Thistle make sure the root also comes out. Although this is an annual, if snapped off the base will regenerate. Sending up several shoots each with the potential to flower and set seed before the coolness of autumn.

Coreopsis verticilata 'Grandiflora' . Photo by Tony Garn

Coreopsis verticilata ‘Grandiflora’

Smooth Sow Thistle, Sonchus oleraceus. Photo by Tony Garn

Smooth Sow Thistle, Sonchus oleraceus

Smooth Sow Thistle, Sonchus oleraceus, grubbed out. Photo by Tony Garn

Smooth Sow Thistle, Sonchus oleraceus, grubbed out

Coreopsis verticilata 'Grandiflora' . Photo by Tony Garn

Coreopsis verticilata ‘Grandiflora’