Dandelion (200+ Seeds)

Description

Dandelion is an old world superfood that grows exceptionally well in the Florida Garden. Although Smaller Wild Varieties of Dandelion grow in the Sunshine State, this old French heirloom variety is much more productive. Similar to other Leafy Greens, the younger leaves are more tender and make a fantastic, nutrient-dense, salad green. Mature leaves make their best culinary contribution in cooked dishes, much like Kale or Collards. 

Dandelion Roots can be cooked or roasted much like carrots, radishes, or potatoes. The roots may also be dried, then used to make tea or as a coffee substitute (Chicory). 

Fun Fact: The Name “Dandelion” comes from a French Phrase meaning “Lion’s Tooth”. 

Dandelions have a rich healing history dating back thousands of years. These little superfoods are great sources for Vitamin C and Vitamin A. The Polysaccharides in Dandelion are very well-known to reduce stress on and assist the Liver in healing (particularly the tea).

Here’s an interesting article on WebMD about some of the health benefits of Dandelion.

Growing Instructions:

Grow Dandelions all year in the Florida Garden! We recommend growing your Dandelion in Partial to Full Sun during the Fall/Winter and Spring Growing Season. Fortunately Dandelion is cold-tolerant, so even when temperatures temporarily reach freezing (which never lasts long in Florida!), they will survive. Temperatures below 50 degrees will significantly slow down the plant’s growth (again, not much of an issue for Florida). 

It is critical that during the Summer Growing Season, Dandelions only be exposed to Partial Morning Sun. We also recommend growing Dandelion in a container during the Summer Growing Season, so that the plant can be easily moved away from too much sun exposure. The peak heat of the Summer Growing Season puts the plant in danger of “bolting”, in other words, flowering, going to seeds, and dying.