Days are lengthening and the soil is warming. At this time of year be aware of the weed population shooting up and flowering. Catch the winter “keepers” now. Many are flowering and others are holding embryo seed pods. Once the sun gains strength the weed population develops. There are exceptions to the, hoe all; control all, theory. Emerging bees are glad of a

Lamium album

Lamium album

nectar sink where they can take on board much needed fuel after the winter. Lamium album and L. purpureum are two self seeders that merit avoidance when wielding the hoe. These vigorous growers have square stems which hold lipped white flowers held tight in to the stem at the leaf axil. These flowers are beneficial to all emerging insects so protect a patch in your garden.