DANDELION

Taraxacum officinale



As a salad Dandelion has won general esteem for its wholesome medicinal

qualities. Nature teaches the way to grow this plant, for she sows the

seed in early summer, and we find the finest plants on dry ground,

while there are none to be found in bogs and swamps. Any gravelly or

chalky soil will grow good Dandelion, one fair digging without manure

being a sufficient preparation for it. Sow in May or June, and thin to

one foot apart every way, keeping the crop scrupulously clean by flat

hoeing. Any time in the winter the roots may be lifted and forced in the

same way as Sea Kale, or they may be covered with pots in spring to

blanch where grown. In any case the spring growth must be made in

darkness, for when green the flavour is bitter. Invalids who require

this salutary salad may obtain early supplies by planting the roots in

boxes in a cellar, and covering with empty boxes. Only as much water

should be given as will keep the roots reasonably moist.