As a kid, did you ever put a dandelion flower under your chin to see if you like butter. Yellow, yes you do. (Maybe that's a midwest thing.) In folklore, yellow also indicated that you would become rich.
And how many times did you pull up the flower after it became a seed head; make a wish and blow on it to see how far the seeds would fly? Another midwest thing?
By the way, did you know that in folklore, the number of seeds left on the head after blowing indicated how many children you would have! Other cultures stated that blowing on the seed head would send good thoughts to loved ones. Still others said that the number of seeds left indicated how long you would live!
Dandelions wound in a bride's bouquet ensured that the new couple would have luck. Dandelions are known as the the flower of 'love' and 'hope'!
Dandelions are also used as a treatment of different ailments although checking with your doctor is advisable before deciding to use.
Did you know that you can eat dandelions either raw or cooked from the flower to the roots?
Dandelions are best tasting when young and fresh. The green part can be added to salads or sauteed lightly in olive oil or butter. Take the petals off the flower head and add them to salads, muffins, etc.
The roots can be washed, dried, then used to make a dandelion tea. And don't forget dandelion wine!
Dandelions are also good for the soil a they loosen hard packed soil, stop erosion and bring nutrients deeper for other plants to use.
You know, it's hard to understand why so many folks spend a ton of time and money trying to get rid of dandelions. But then I prefer a natural ground cover to manicured grass.
No matter where you stand on dandelions, go outside and have fun. And if you spot a dandelion, smile and enjoy it.
Talk with you tomorrow...
Thanks for stopping by...
enjoy it