x
Breaking News
More () »

Gardener's Guide: What Triad Plants And Weeds To Watch Out For This Summer

A teenager in Virginia had a run-in this week with a Giant Hogweed plant, sending him to the hospital with second and third-degree burns. But, what's the chance we'll see this toxic weed in the Triad?

GREENSBORO, N.C. - Giant Hogweed plants are mostly found up North, growing in fields, forests and near streams. In our state, there’s only one county with a reported infestation: Watauga County.

But, these massive, and dangerous plants, aren’t far away. This week, a Virginia teenager got second and third degree burns on his face and arms, from cutting a Giant Hogweed while he was working his summer landscaping job.

So, while the Triad may not have to worry about this invasive species in our own backyard, we do have some pesky plants to remember. Weeds like poison ivy and Virginia Creeper are common in overgrown gardens, and if you’re out hiking – you may run into poison sumac.

Plants in your garden – that you meant to put there – could be irritants to some people as well. If you cut into a Euphorbia plant stem, the sap inside could be irritating to those with latex allergies. Lantanas have leaves that can leave rashes, or bumps on the skin. Foxgloves are toxic if eaten.

We spoke with Ann Tangedal, who works at New Garden Landscaping and Nursery. She says if you wear the proper clothing – long sleeves, pants, and gloves - while planting, or weeding, you should lessen your chances of rashes or blisters.

Head over to the New Garden Landscaping and Nursery website for more gardening information.

Follow WFMY News 2 on Facebook and Twitter

► Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the WFMY News 2 App now

Before You Leave, Check This Out