Here are some things that I've noticed. First is that it seems to be drought and heat tolerant. Everything in the yard has been struggling this summer except for the pokeweed. It has doubled in size! Second is that it is very prolific. Apparently the birds eat the berries and pass the seeds. I noticed little sprouts in the raised beds early this year and pulled them right out. That proved a very easy task and they haven't grown back. Last year, before I knew what I was looking at, I allowed one to grow in one of the beds. The things was nearly as big as a tree before I pulled it this spring. It took a shovel and a lot of digging to finally get the roots out. I have allowed the patch to grow next to the peonies on the north side of the house, but I'm afraid they are taking over. To top it all off, I just noticed it growing in the rose bush island out back. It's starting to feel like a plague!
Those sounds like bad things, but if I can keep it controlled, I have to admit that it's somewhat attractive and is obviously happy with our harsh soil and climate. And like I said before, it can be eaten. I've heard some people refer to it as a southern delicacy. (Does anyone remember the song Poke Salad Annie)? There are even recipes for it on some of the more popular recipe sites. I'm not convinced to try it out yet because of all the 'cook it just right' warnings, but I'm not sold on just pulling it up as a nuisance plant either.
If you have pokeweed on your property, or find it just shows up one day as a gift from the birds in the area, these are some things that you'll have to consider before you decide what to do about it. I'll keep you updated on ours, and will be sure to let you know how it goes if we ever decide to eat it!
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