Weeding - Between The Lines’

John Dwyer

Keywords:

Weeding

Abstract:

his article is the introductory chapter of John Dwyer, QC’s recent book “Weeding – Between The Lines” 2023, published by the Australian Garden History Society. The book is an anthology of individual species - exotic and indigenous - and their historical and cultural associations with society, the reasons why they have been cultivated, and their weediness. The introduction is re-published with John’s consent, given that the topic is highly relevant to WEEDS. John Dwyer has long been an advocate for a balanced view on weeds and a better botanical and ecological understanding. He has been a strong voice in Australia questioning the appropriateness of calling weedy colonizing species as ‘Aliens’ and ‘Invaders’, the lexicon upon which Invasion Biology has been built. Creating fear and apprehension in the public’s mind, John argues, does not help us manage weeds, where they can be problems (Dwyer, 2009; 2011, 2012; 2016). The message in John Dwyer’s new book is extremely powerful, and the arguments made are compelling reading. It is the same message our Journal has been promoting since its inception in 2019. Weeds – shadows of humans - demand to be better understood before we attempt to control them!