Dandelion

Soil Preparation 

 Soil Type:

• Well draining, loose soil.
• Avoid waterlogged areas. 

 pH:

• 6.0–7.5. Test soil and amend with lime (if acidic) or sulphur (if alkaline). 

 Enrichment:

• Mix in compost or aged manure. Remove weeds to reduce competition. 

Planting Seeds 

 Direct Sowing: 

• Scatter seeds on soil surface; lightly press (no deeper than 1 mm). 
• Space 30 cm apart for mature plants. 

 Germination: 

• Keep soil moist. Germinates in 7–21 days at 10–25°C. 

 Container Growing:

• Use deep pots (30 cm+) to control them spreading.

Ongoing Care 

 Watering: 

• Keep moist until established. Mature plants: water weekly (more in arid zones). 

 Fertilising:

• Optional. Use balanced fertiliser monthly. 

 Mulching:

• Apply straw/wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds. 

 Pests/Diseases: 

• Aphids/Slugs: Handpick or use neem oil. 
• Powdery Mildew: Improve airflow; avoid overhead watering. 

Harvesting 

 Leaves:

• Pick young, tender leaves (5–10 cm long) for salads.
• Avoid overharvesting (take1/3 of plant). 

 Flowers:

• Collect fully open blooms for tea or fritters. 

 Roots:

• Dig in autumn (Year 2) for roasting or medicinal use. 

Companion Planting Guide 

Benefits of Dandelions: 

• Dynamic accumulators (bring up calcium, potassium, iron). 
• Flowers attract pollinators (bees, butterflies). 
• Early blooms provide spring nectar. 

Good Companions: 

• Fruit Trees (e.g., citrus, apple): Dandelions improve soil nutrition. 
• Leafy Greens (lettuce, spinach): Partial shade from dandelions reduces bolting. 
• Herbs (chamomile, yarrow): Enhance biodiversity; deter pests. 
• Tomatoes/Cucumbers: Nutrient sharing benefits. 

Avoid Planting With: 

• Root Vegetables (carrots, parsnips): Compete for space; dandelions may invade. 
• Lawns/Grasses: Dandelions outcompete turf. 

Tips for Success 

 Contain Spread:

• Deadhead flowers before seeding. Grow in raised beds/pots. 
• Seed Saving: Collect seeds from dried flower heads; store in a cool, dry place.