SUP (Spontaneous Urban Plants) – Weeds in NYC is a written by David Seiter with Future Green Studio investigates the role of weeds in the urban ecosystem by profiling a cross section of weeds. The intent is to stimulate a discourse between ecologists, designers, artists and the general public that explores societal perceptions of weeds and questions the stigmas that surround them.
SUP seeks to challenge the perception of weeds as spontaneous vegetation that is mundane, unwanted and should be eradicated. Throughout the book, Seiter and Future Green Studio look to push the reader to go beyond their normal views of weeds and ask us to understand these spontaneous plants of urban ecology. The book provides a guide of weeds in New York with separate chapters for various applications for weeds such as Carbon Sequestration, Edible, Medicinal, Wildlife Habitat, Stormwater retention, Phytoremediation, each chapter provides a species cultivation sheet that shows Seed Dispersal, Flowering Times, and Leaf Growth. Although the chapters are separated by application the cultivation sheet also lists the multiple application for each species such as Rhus Typhina – Wildlife Habitat, Medicinal, Stormwater Retention, etc.
The book is well presented and provides interesting concepts for future exploration and research.
SUP was provided free to WLA for review. It can be purchased on through Amazon (affiliate link) for $21.95USD (price as at 11 March 2018)
Spontaneous Urban Plants: Weeds in NYC
Hardcover: 144 pages
Publisher: Archer
Language: English
ISBN-10: 194172907X
ISBN-13: 978-1941729076
Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 0.7 x 7.2 inches