Got loads of thistles growing around my plot. Are they of any use for anything.
food for goldfinches?
Thistle flowers are much loved by bees and butterflies but they seed everywhere and your plot neighbours may not like you leaving them to go to seed
Let them flower, then pull the flowers off, dig them up, and compost them.
Hmmm...giving a good thrashing on back.. :-X ;D
cut just as they turn brown. Hang to dry. Come the autumn spray paint what ever your xmas theme. Add to flower arrangements or on there own in a vase ;D
Fantastic nectar source for insects (especially late summer/early autumn when most things have gone over) but are otherwise a source of rectal discomfort as the are a competitive species (plus I've sat on plenty) ;D
Donkeys... Eeyore likes thistles... :-X
Milk thistles are supposed to be delicious salad - but you have to trim the spiny edges with scissors...
Cheers.