Monday, May 26, 2014

Growing Dandelion from Seed to Harvest

Dandelion isn't just a pesky garden weed.  Did you know that eating Dandelion can actually be good for you?

At Mary's Heirloom Seeds we carry Dandelion Seeds.



Chicory greens have long, broad, dandelion-like leaves with an asparagus-like flavor. A rapid grower, the leaves and tender spring stalks can be used as early greens.
Germination: 45-70 days
Days to Maturity: 52-80 days 

About Dandelion
Dandelion greens contain vitamin C, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, thiamin, riboflavin, beta carotene and fiber. They are actually more nutritious than most of the fruits and vegetables you can buy in the grocery store.
It is also touted as being beneficial to your liver, kidneys, blood and digestion. Not to mention that it supposedly helps with acne, weight-loss, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It is nearly a perfect food.

From Global Healing Center
HERBAL PROPERTIES AND USES:
Highly nutritious and known to treat a variety of ailments, dandelion is a great plant to grow in your garden. From heart problems to acne, liver diseases to eye conditions, most people are unaware that this weed has higher amounts of potassium than bananas and more vitamin A than carrots. Dandelion is also reported to have anti-rheumatic capacities. It is also a powerful diuretic with additional laxative properties. Good for hepatic and gallbladder conditions, digestive complaints, as well as general constipation.


Growing Dandelion from Seed
Because dandelion is considered a weed, it doesn't take much effort to grow.  If you're looking for a low-maintenance garden green.

Plant seeds directly in the garden 1/4 inch deep in the soil in single rows, about 8 inches.  Plant the dandelion seeds in early spring in well-drained, fertile soil.

Harvesting Dandelion
Never harvest dandelions from a location that is near a road or has been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.  Harvest leaves as needed when they are a usable size.


Helpful Links




http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marys-Heirloom-Seeds/229833070442449





5 comments:

OneMommy said...

Such fun! I can see this being a great activity for us at school next year...

Unknown said...

I love it! My step- Dad is Italian and always talks about his grandfather picking the dandelions in the spring, he cooked them & made wine. I love the idea of growing them in the garden. I'd love it if you would come link up at my link party happening right now! http://werefarfromnormal.com/2014/05/wake-up-wednesday-4.html

Unknown said...

My grandparents had a farm and we grew up eating dandelion salads. They were so good. I didn't know that they could actually be grown from seed. Brilliant! Thanks for an informative post! I'm your newest email subscriber!

Unknown said...

Thank you so much for sharing at our Cook it! Craft it! Share it! Link Party. I hope you can join us this Wednesday night at 8:30 PM EST -Doree

Unknown said...

Hi Mary,
I love to add dandelion to my smoothies and I can just imagine how delightful it would be to pick my own dandelion fresh from my garden.It is so nutritious. Thank you for sharing these valuable post with us at the Healthy, Happy, Green and Natural Party Blog Hop!