Description

Dandelion (*Taraxacum officinale*) is a hardy, herbaceous perennial native to Eurasia, now widespread across temperate regions globally. It features a basal rosette of deeply toothed, lance-shaped leaves measuring approximately 5–25 cm (2–10 inches) in length. The plant produces bright yellow composite flowers on hollow, leafless stalks that can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) tall. Following pollination, the flowers develop into spherical seed heads known as "clocks," which disperse seeds via wind.

✂️🫘 Methods to Propagate:
- **Seeds:** Sow seeds directly on the soil surface in early spring or fall, as they require light for germination. Ensure the soil remains moist until seedlings establish.
- **Division:** Mature plants can be divided by carefully excavating the taproot and separating offsets, which can then be replanted.

🌞💧 Sun and Water Requirements:
- **Sun:** Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Optimal growth occurs with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- **Water:** Dandelions are drought-tolerant once established but thrive in consistently moist, well-drained soils. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.

🧑‍🌾👩‍🌾 When to Harvest:
- **Leaves:** Young leaves are best harvested in early spring before the plant flowers, as they are less bitter. These can be used fresh in salads or cooked.
- **Roots:** Harvest roots in late fall when nutrient concentration is highest, typically after the first frost. Roots can be roasted for beverages or used in herbal preparations.
- **Flowers:** Collect fully opened flowers on dry, sunny days for use in culinary dishes or to infuse oils.

Purpose

- Edible: All parts of the dandelion are edible. Young leaves add a slightly bitter note to salads and soups. Roots can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute, while flowers are utilized in making wines and jellies.
- Medicinal: Traditionally employed for their diuretic and liver-supporting properties. Dandelion roots and leaves are used in herbal medicine to stimulate digestion and support detoxification processes.
- Dynamic Accumulator: The deep taproot draws up nutrients such as calcium and potassium from the subsoil, enriching the topsoil when the plant decomposes.
- Pollinator: Early spring blooms provide a crucial nectar source for bees and other pollinators when few other flowers are available.
- Ground Cover: The dense rosette of leaves helps suppress weeds and protect soil from erosion.