Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 13:29

"But he saith, Nay; lest haply while ye gather up the tares, ye root up the wheat with them." — Matthew 13:29 (ASV)

But he said, Nay—Prior to the interpretation, the householder of the parable is clearly intended to be a pattern of patient wisdom. He knows that he can defeat the malice of his foe, but he will choose his own time and plan. While both wheat and tares were green, people might confuse the two; or, in rooting up the tares, they might tear up the wheat as well. When the harvest came, and the stalks were dry and their appearance more distinct, it would be comparatively easy to gather the tares and leave the wheat.