In our metaphor, the weeds are our deadly sins, vices, and defenses. They can potentially cause harm in the garden, they’re unattractive, and they can choke the life out of other plants and flowers growing in the garden. I present to you the four weeds. 

Level 1 weeds are like Oxalis. They’re small, they’re delicate, and easy to deal with. With just a little pinch of the fingers you can pull the whole thing out, roots and all. 

Level 2 weeds are like Dandelions. They don’t seem like too big a deal, but they have deeper roots that are harder to deal with. If we pull at the weeds too quickly or carelessly, we might pull out the flowers and the stems, but leave the roots intact and underground, which as we all know means they will grow back in no time. 

Level 3 weeds are like Crabgrass. They grow fast, they’re ugly, they have hearty root systems, and they will steal sun and soil from the good grass. I once nearly threw my back out trying to pull crabgrass in my front lawn. 

Level 4 weeds are like Japanese Knotweed. Japanese knotweed is perhaps the most destructive weed on earth. It’s bamboo-like roots can break through concrete foundations and brick walls, causing millions of dollars worth of property damage. It is nearly impossible to kill. Level 4 weeds require intervention.