  Dandelion
is a perennial herb thought to be introduced from Europe and Asia. It is
now naturalized throughout the Northern Hemisphere and is considered a
major weed.
Our main concern is to keep the flowers near the
gardens from going to seed and to pull out the plants that pop up in the
garden beds and paths. The kids love to see who can pull out the
longest root. The record in our gardens is 12".
History: Dandelions have
been used to treat ailments such as rheumatism and constipation. Young
dandelion leaves are used in salads, the flowers to make wine, and the roasted
roots to make coffee. (from
The
Ohio State University Ohio Perennial and Biennial Weed Guide)
Life cycle: perennial with
long taproot, grows from seeds
dispersed by wind and root fragments, which is why we stress trying to get as
much of the taproot as possible. |
