FRIEND OR FOE?
Let me just say this – I LOVE DANDELIONS AND SEEING THEM IN BLOOM IN EARLY SPRING! I have come full circle about my thoughts about dandelions. Growing up my family had a huge lawn that was full of dandelions and clover. It was just accepted. My dad never put down any herbicides. Matter of fact, I don’t ever recall him ever seeding or fertilizing the lawn. For the past few decades now everyone wants to kill the dandelions in the lawn. And, I supported this effort for a long time. But now I have a different view and a new appreciation for dandelions. I now see the beauty and the benefits of both dandelions and clover growing in our lawns.
The dandelion is a common perennial that is starting to be embraced for pollinators. Dandelions are one of the earliest food sources for our beloved bees.
My ecological perspective of the dandelion has helped turn my view about dandelions. I see beauty and not disgust.
Dandelions are typically one of the first flowers to appear in late winter and early spring around here in Central Virginia, a time when there are few food sources for pollinators. Bees and other insects feed on the nectar and pollen of dandelions because it is convenient.
Homeowners need to learn about maintaining a diverse flowering landscape throughout the year by planting a variety of different native flowering plants. And, this concept starts with the dandelion. Here is a quick list of popular native plants to consider planting: I’ll use the common names . Swamp Milkweed, Blue False Indigo, Coneflower, Joe Pye Weed, Cardinal Flower, Bee Balm, Black Eyed Susan, Goldenrod, There are more native plants for consideration that I did not list.
Are you on board with my thinking? If not that’s ok. If you are truly invested in supporting all our beneficial insects and pollinators then think about the dandelion. Put away your herbicides and insecticide sprays. Learn other options for controlling unwanted “weeds”.
WHEN “BUZZING” AROUND YOUR HOME PLANT A LITTLE HAPPINESS PLEASE!!!!!!!!!