Clarifying a misconception

Posted 8/21/12

Myths and misunderstandings abound in nature and can lead to undesirable outcomes. Such is the case when it comes to two plants that flower at this time of year. One of them provokes an allergic …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

Clarifying a misconception

Posted

Myths and misunderstandings abound in nature and can lead to undesirable outcomes. Such is the case when it comes to two plants that flower at this time of year. One of them provokes an allergic response in humans. The other does not, but it is often blamed for the offense. Why?

Ragweed is responsible for the host of symptoms associated with respiratory allergies. But although we’re all familiar with its name, many of us haven’t a clue what it looks like. That’s because its unassuming appearance allows it to fade into the background of our perception, behind other more showy plants.

Enter goldenrod, which blooms within a similar timeframe and sometimes in proximity to ragweed. Due to its opulence of bright yellow flowers, it claims our attention and often erroneously gets tagged for triggering our allergies.

We then turn our attention to removing the plants or waging war on the innocent yellow blooms with herbicides. In doing so, we eliminate an important source of sustenance for insects like bees and butterflies. Take some time to learn the difference between these plants while they are blooming now. Then show a friend.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here