which runs from 11th to the 17th May, is a good opportunity to get out into the garden and seek out problem weeds such as the dandelion, Rosebay Willowherb, common thistle, common couch and broad-leaved dock before they take a hold.

A weed is defined as a plant that grows where it is not wanted.

Because weeds grow extremely quickly they need to be removed when they are seedlings so as to prevent them taking up vital nutrition and water from the soil.

Some interesting facts about weeds.

1 - Did you know that weeds such as wild carrot, cow parsley and celery

grow at least 350 seeds on a single flower head?

2 - The world's largest weed is the giant hogweed from Central Asia. It reaches 3.65m (12ft) in height and has leaves 91cms (36in) long.

3 - Stinging nettles are often found in herbal medicine for cleaning the body and making the heart work better. Nettles are packed full of vitamin C and new shoots are often used to make tea.