Weeds

The author probably did not intend this as a field guide to edible wild plants, but with its many photos it works very well in that role. It has useful information about distinguishing similar plants, which plants are native and which introduced, seed size (native Chenopodium spp have seeds twice as large as introduced European lambsquarters Chenopodium album -- which datum caused me to reflect whether this is cause, or effect, of the First Nations using them as a grain before the introduction of maize). The weed control information is valuable too: even if you're controlling weeds by pulling, this book will tell you which have a tap root, which will regenerate from unpulled runners, which have to be uprooted before setting seed. ( )

A beautifully produced book in the Lone Pine tradition. A well rendered book showing the wide and diverse species of wild plants and weeds common across Canada. Dedicating this book 'to farmers everywhere' is a real touch of whimsical humour. ( )