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The Magic of Leafmould: Enriching Your Garden Soil the Natural Way

Have you ever marvelled at the lush, vibrant gardens with soil so rich and crumbly that plants seem to thrive effortlessly? Achieving such fertile ground might be easier than you think. The secret lies in harnessing the power of leafmould. Leafmould as a natural soil enrichment method that will transform your gardening. From creating the perfect leafmould pile to reaping its benefits, get ready to discover how this humble resource can take your garden to new heights.

Understanding Leafmould: Nature’s Gift to Gardeners

What is Leafmould?

Leafmould is simply decomposed leaves that have broken down over time into a dark, crumbly substance. It occurs naturally in forests and woodland areas where fallen leaves accumulate and slowly transform into nutrient-rich organic matter. This remarkable material acts as nature’s own fertiliser, enhancing soil structure and promoting healthy plant growth.

Why Use Leafmould?

Soil Enrichment: Leafmould improves soil fertility by increasing its ability to retain moisture and nutrients while enhancing drainage. It creates an optimal environment for plants’ root systems to flourish.

Organic Matter: As an organic amendment, leafmould enhances overall soil health by boosting microbial activity and fostering beneficial organisms like earthworms.

Sustainable Gardening: Utilising fallen leaves to create leafmould reduces waste and promotes sustainable gardening practices.

Cost-Effective: Making your own leafmould is a budget-friendly alternative to purchasing commercial fertilizers and soil amendments.

Now that we understand the incredible benefits of leafmould, let’s delve into the process of creating this black gold in your very own garden.

Building Your Leafmould Pile: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a leafmould pile is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort but rewards you with abundant returns. Follow these steps to embark on your leafmould-making journey:

Step 1: Gather Fallen Leaves

The first step is to collect fallen leaves, and fortunately, autumn provides an abundant supply. Rake up leaves from your garden or gather them from local parks and woodlands. Aim for a mix of different tree species to achieve a diverse blend of nutrients in your leafmould.

Step 2: Choose the Right Location

Find an out-of-the-way spot in your garden to build your leafmould pile. A shady corner or under a tree canopy works well as it maintains moisture levels and prevents excessive drying. Avoid placing the pile near structures or walkways where it may obstruct movement.

Step 3: Constructing Your Leafmould Bin

To contain the leaves and facilitate decomposition, you can create a simple post and wire bin. Use wooden stakes or posts to create the corners of the bin, then attach chicken wire or mesh fencing around them. This structure allows airflow while keeping the leaves contained.

Step 4: Layering and Moistening

Begin by placing a layer of leaves at the bottom of the bin, around 6-8 inches thick. Lightly moisten this layer with water using a watering can or hose spray attachment. Repeat this process, adding more layers until the bin is filled.

Step 5: Maintain Moisture Levels

To retain moisture during decomposition, cover the leaf-filled bin with a black plastic sack or tarp. This protective covering helps to conserve moisture and create a warm environment ideal for decomposition. Occasionally, lift the tarp and give the leaves a gentle shake to ensure even moisture distribution.

Patience Rewarded: The Art of Waiting for Leafmould

Leafmould creation is not an overnight process; it requires patience and time. On average, it takes around a year for the leaves to break down fully. However, the waiting period is well worth it when you witness the transformation of these fallen leaves into dark, crumbly leafmould.

While you wait, remember to check on your leafmould pile periodically. Ensure it remains moist but not soggy by lightly watering if necessary. Over time, microbial activity will take place within the pile, breaking down the leaves and transforming them into nutrient-rich goodness for your garden.

Harnessing Leafmould’s Magic: Application and Benefits

Once your leafmould has reached its desired state—dark brown in colour with a pleasant earthy aroma—it’s time to reap its rewards.

Soil Amendment:

Incorporate leafmould into your garden beds by spreading a layer over the soil surface or mixing it into existing soil. This organic matter improves soil structure, enhances drainage, and increases nutrient retention.

Mulching:

Apply a layer of leafmould around plants as mulch to suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and conserve moisture. This protective covering also adds beneficial nutrients to the topsoil as it slowly decomposes.

Seed Starting Mix:

Mix leafmould with compost or potting soil to create a lightweight and nutrient-rich medium for starting seeds indoors or in pots. The fine texture of leafmould promotes healthy root development in young plants.

Container Gardening:

Blend leafmould with potting mix when planting in containers or hanging baskets. Its water retention properties help prevent drying out while providing essential nutrients for potted plants.

Lawn Care:

Spread a thin layer of leafmould over your lawn to improve soil health, encourage deeper root growth, and enhance resistance to drought.

Unleash the Power of Leafmould in Your Garden

Leafmould is a gardener’s secret weapon, offering a multitude of benefits for your garden’s health and productivity. By harnessing the natural process of leaf decomposition, you can create a nutrient-rich soil amendment that will nourish your plants, enhance soil structure, and foster a thriving garden ecosystem. So, gather those fallen leaves, build your leafmould pile, and watch as nature works its magic. Embrace the power of leafmould and unlock the full potential of your garden!

Why and When to Plant Green Manures

Green Manure

As gardeners, we are constantly seeking ways to improve the health and fertility of our soil. One method that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of green manures. Green manures are cover crops that are grown specifically to benefit the soil. They can be a valuable addition to any garden, providing numerous advantages such as improved soil structure, increased organic matter, and weed suppression.

What Are Green Manures?

Before we dive into the benefits and drawbacks of green manures, let’s first understand what they actually are. Green manures, also known as cover crops or living mulches, are fast-growing plants that are cultivated primarily for their ability to enrich the soil. These crops are typically sown during periods when the main growing season is over or when a specific area of the garden lies fallow.

The key purpose of green manures is to add organic matter back into the soil through decomposition once they have been incorporated into the ground. This process helps to improve soil structure, increase nutrient levels, enhance water retention capacity, and promote beneficial microbial activity within the soil ecosystem.

The Benefits of Green Manures

Improved Soil Structure: One of the primary benefits of green manures is their ability to improve soil structure. Their extensive root systems penetrate deep into the soil, creating channels for air and water movement while reducing compaction. This results in better drainage and aeration for plant roots.

Increased Organic Matter: Green manure crops contribute significant amounts of organic matter to your garden beds once they decompose. This added organic matter improves soil fertility by increasing nutrient-holding capacity and enhancing microbial activity.

Nitrogen Fixation: Certain green manure crops, such as legumes like clover, peas, and beans, have the remarkable ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be readily absorbed by plants. This natural nitrogen fixation reduces the need for synthetic fertilisers and promotes healthy plant growth.

Weed Suppression: Green manures can help suppress weed growth by outcompeting them for space, light, and nutrients. By covering the soil surface and shading it from sunlight, green manures create an unfavourable environment for weed establishment.

Erosion Control: During heavy rainfall or wind events, bare soil is prone to erosion. Green manure cover crops act as a protective layer, preventing soil erosion by holding the soil in place with their extensive root systems.

Drawbacks of Green Manures

While green manures offer numerous benefits to gardeners, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks before incorporating them into your gardening practices:

Time Commitment: Growing green manure crops requires planning and time management. You will need to allocate sufficient time for sowing, maintenance, and incorporation of the crop into the soil before it goes to seed.

Competition with Cash Crops: If not managed properly, green manures can compete with your main cash crops for nutrients and resources. It’s crucial to choose green manure species that won’t overshadow or negatively impact your desired plants.

Special Considerations for Seed Production Areas: If you save seeds from your garden plants or have nearby seed production areas, you need to select appropriate green manure species that won’t cross-pollinate with your seed varieties.

Potential Pest and Disease Hosts: While uncommon, certain green manure crops may host pests or diseases that could affect subsequent plantings in the same area if not fully decomposed before planting.

Choosing the Right Green Manure for Your Garden

When selecting a green manure crop, consider the specific needs and conditions of your garden. Here are some points to keep in mind:

Soil Type and pH Requirements

Different green manure crops thrive in different soil types. Some prefer heavy clay soils, while others do well in sandy or loamy soils. Additionally, certain green manures can help improve soil pH if you have acidic or alkaline conditions.

Time of Year

The ideal time to plant green manures depends on your location and climate. In the UK, common planting times include late summer/early autumn for overwintering varieties and spring for warmer season crops.

Goals and Objectives

Consider what you hope to achieve with your green manure crop. Are you looking to increase nitrogen levels, improve soil structure, or suppress weeds? Different species excel at different benefits.

Green manures have become an invaluable tool for gardeners seeking to improve their soil health and fertility naturally. By understanding their benefits, drawbacks, and how to choose the right green manure for your garden’s unique needs, you can harness the power of these cover crops effectively. Whether you’re aiming to enrich your soil with organic matter or control weeds while nourishing your plants, incorporating green manures into your gardening practices is a sustainable choice that will yield long-term benefits for both your plants and the environment.

Pruning Apple and Pear Trees…

Pruning apple and pear trees is a crucial task for gardeners, as it not only helps maintain the health of the trees but also ensures optimal fruit production. But when and how should you prune these trees? Let’s delve into this horticultural art and explore some key considerations.

When it comes to pruning, one important question to ask is how much to prune off. The answer lies in understanding what you are trying to achieve. Pruning aims to create an open framework that allows sunlight and air circulation, which promotes healthy growth and reduces disease risk. By removing dead, damaged or crossing branches, you can encourage new growth and improve the overall structure of the tree.

However, it’s essential to avoid giving your apple and pear trees a drastic “haircut.” Over-pruning can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. On the other hand, pruning too little may result in overcrowded canopies that hinder airflow and sunlight penetration.

Pruning problems can arise if done incorrectly or at the wrong time of year. It’s advisable to prune during late winter or early spring when the trees are dormant but before bud break. This allows wounds from pruning cuts to heal quickly without exposing them to potential infections.

Remember, as a gardener, your aim is not just about shaping your tree but also fostering its long-term health and productivity. So take a mindful approach when pruning apple and pear trees in order to strike a balance between encouraging vigorous growth while maintaining an open canopy structure.

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Putting your garden to bed for the winter!

As the vibrant colours of summer fade away, it’s time for gardeners to prepare their beloved green spaces for a well-deserved winter rest. Putting the garden to bed is not just a routine task, but an opportunity to nurture and protect our plants, ensuring their resilience and beauty for seasons to come.

Gardeners play a vital role in this transition, carefully tending to each plant with love and care. From clearing away debris and fallen leaves to cutting back perennials, every action taken helps create a healthy environment for our plants during the dormant months.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to tidy up your garden by removing any dead or decaying plants. Clearing away fallen leaves and debris not only improves the aesthetic appeal but also prevents diseases from spreading during the dormant months.

Next, protect your plants from frost by covering them with mulch or straw. This insulating layer acts as a cosy blanket, shielding delicate roots from freezing temperatures and reducing moisture loss.

Pruning is another important task that should not be overlooked. Trimming back overgrown branches promotes healthier growth in the future and prevents damage caused by heavy snow or ice.

While these tasks may seem arduous, they come with numerous benefits. By putting your garden to bed for winter, you create a clean slate for next year’s growth. It allows plants to conserve energy during their dormant period so they can burst forth with renewed vigour when spring arrives.

Moreover, preparing your garden for winter helps prevent pest infestations and diseases that thrive in damp conditions. By tidying up now, you reduce the risk of encountering problems later on and ensure a healthy start to the next growing season.

In addition to caring for your plants and to assist wildlife during winter, leave some areas of your garden untouched. Allow fallen leaves and twigs to accumulate as natural habitats for insects and small animals seeking shelter from the cold.

Consider installing bird feeders filled with nutritious seeds or providing fresh water sources like birdbaths. These simple gestures create havens for birds when food becomes scarce in colder months while adding an enchanting touch of life to your winter landscape.

By carrying out these essential tasks and embracing nature’s rhythm, we ensure that our gardens will thrive and bring us joy for years to come.

Further Reading: How to Protect the Soil In Winter

Albizia julibrissin: The Delightful Mimosa Tree

This wonderful tree, also known as a silk tree or mimosa, is popular for its stunning beauty and versatility. The Mimosa tree is known for producing large flowers that vary in colour from soft pink to bright red, which bloom all summer long. It has delicate green leaves which are bipinnate and can add a tropical feel to any garden. Albizia julibrissin is a must-have for an elegant and stunning garden design.

The leaves of the Mimosa Tree are beautiful and unique, with a pale-green hue and a delicate appearance. The bark is also smooth and grey. Albizia julibrissin can grow up to 10 to 15 metres tall. The flowers grow in clusters, with soft pink to red colours. These flowers are not only stunning to look at, but they also add a sweet fragrance to the garden. The Mimosa Tree blooms from June until September, depending on the climate. With its unique shape and delicate foliage, this tree is an excellent addition to any garden.

Albizia julibrissin: The Delightful Mimosa Tree

Albizia julibrissin is a low-maintenance tree that is easy to grow. It thrives in full sun and has low to moderate water requirements. This tree prefers well-drained soil, but it can also tolerate wet soil. For best growth, the Mimosa Tree should be planted in a location that is sheltered from high winds, as its branches are quite fragile.

The Mimosa tree is generally low-maintenance, but it still needs regular attention. Pruning is essential for this tree, especially if you want to keep it at a manageable size. You can also remove the dead or diseased branches, which will help the tree stay healthy. Albizia julibrissin is prone to infestations by pests, such as spider mites and scale insects. Regular monitoring and treatment are required to avoid these pests. Providing adequate water and nutrients is also essential for healthy growth.

Albizia julibrissin is a versatile tree that can be used in many different garden designs. It’s an excellent choice for small garden areas due to its compact size and delicate foliage. This tree can also be used for shade, especially in areas where large canopies are not suitable. Additionally, the Mimosa Tree can serve as a border, a specimen plant, or even an accent. With its stunning beauty and adaptability, Albizia julibrissin is a must-have for any gardener.

The Mimosa Tree is an excellent choice for anyone looking to create an elegant and beautiful garden. With its stunning colour and versatile characteristics, it can add a tropical feel to any landscape. Albizia julibrissin is known for being easy to grow and low-maintenance, making it perfect for beginner gardeners. With regular pruning and monitoring, this tree can stay healthy and continue to bloom all summer long. So, whether you’re looking to add a new tree to your garden or starting a new project, the Mimosa Tree is an excellent option to consider.

Exploring the Magnificent Gardens of East Ruston Old Vicarage in Norfolk

Spread across 32 acres, this garden is a perfect blend of art and nature, with its stunning mix of exotic and traditional plant varieties. The East Ruston Old Vicarage offers a unique glimpse of what can be achieved through careful planning and cultivation.

The Dutch Garden is stunning with its symmetrical design and colourful bedding plants. This garden is adorned with antique garden ornaments such as statues, urns, and garden furniture. The well-maintained lawns and hedges add to the overall beauty of this garden.

The Kings Walk is an avenue of majestic lime trees that provide a beautiful canopy. Rhododendrons, azaleas, and other flowering shrubs line the path, making it a favourite spot for a leisurely walk. Its serene and idyllic surroundings make it an ideal place for nature lovers to spend some time in the company of majestic trees and colourful blooms.

The Sunk Garden, located near the house, is a sunken garden with steps on both sides. This garden is divided into four sections, each with different planting schemes featuring a wide range of colourful flowers.

The Exotic Garden has a unique collection of plants, including hardy palms, bamboos and bananas, and is home to a variety of tropical and subtropical plants. This garden also has a pond area with a variety of aquatic plants.

The Woodland Garden is the oldest part of East Ruston Old Vicarage. It is characterized by a variety of trees such as oak, beech, and maple, along with a mix of flowering shrubs. The garden has a natural feel, with the paths winding through the woods, leading visitors to discover the hidden treasures within.

The Desert Wash features a variety of drought-tolerant plants, including cacti, desert succulents, and exotic shrubs. The garden is built on a slope that resembles the landscape of the Mojave Desert in the US, complete with a dry stream bed and rocks.

The Mediterranean Garden is a south-facing garden with a warm, sheltered microclimate that creates a perfect environment for Mediterranean plants such as olive trees and lavender. This garden also has an extensive collection of citrus trees that provide a refreshing aroma throughout the garden.

The Catalpa Garden features the rare and exotic “Katsura” tree, which is native to Japan. This seasonal tree emits a sweet caramel scent reminiscent of cotton candy or brown sugar. The garden is surrounded by a fence of cypress trees, creating a peaceful environment that radiates tranquillity.

The East Ruston Old Vicarage is a paradise on earth and a must-visit destination for any garden enthusiast. The well-manicured gardens are a testament to the owners’ love of horticulture and their passion for creating stunning landscapes.

See our reel on our instagram account for this garden! 🌻

Patron Saint of Gardeners

The Saint Who Greened Thumbs: Celebrating St. Fiacre of Breuil, Patron Saint of Gardeners

We bring you the tale of St. Fiacre of Breuil, a hermit from Ireland who found his calling in France as a gardener and healer. Whether you are an amateur gardener or a seasoned horticulturist, we invite you to join us in celebrating this remarkable patron saint of gardeners whose feast day falls on 30th August or 1st September.

St. Fiacre of Breuil was born in the 7th century in Ireland and soon found his calling as a hermit, living in solitude and contemplation. However, his reputation for piety and spiritual insight soon spread, and he became known as a wise and compassionate counsellor to people who sought his guidance. When he decided to move to France, his fame preceded him, and he was welcomed by the local people who recognized his spiritual gifts.

But what really set St. Fiacre apart was his love for all things green and growing. He had a natural talent for horticulture and soon gained a reputation as an expert gardener. He worked tirelessly to create gardens that were both beautiful and productive, experimenting with new varieties of fruits and vegetables and developing new techniques for nurturing plants. His gardens became a source of sustenance for the local people, and he began dispensing medicinal herbs and remedies to those in need.

As St. Fiacre’s reputation as a gardener and healer grew, he attracted disciples who wanted to learn from him and follow in his footsteps. He built a small chapel in his garden in Breuil, and it became a place of pilgrimage for people seeking healing and spiritual solace. He dedicated his life to serving others and worked tirelessly until his death in AD 670.

St. Fiacre’s legacy has endured for centuries, and he is celebrated as the patron saint of gardeners. His feast day is marked by gardeners all over the world, who see him as a source of inspiration and guidance. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there is much to learn from his wisdom and compassion. He reminds us that we are all stewards of the earth, and that we have a responsibility to care for it and nurture it for future generations.

St. Fiacre of Breuil is a shining example of how a love for nature and a commitment to service can change lives and transform the world. As we celebrate his feast day, let us pause for a moment and reflect on the importance of gardening and horticulture in our world. With each seed we plant, each flower we tend, and each harvest we reap, we are contributing to the well-being of our communities and the planet. Let us honour the memory of St. Fiacre by working to create gardens that are not only beautiful and productive but also sources of healing and hope for all.

National Garden Scheme

Gardening enthusiasts in the UK are in for an extraordinary treat as they can witness an impressive array of home gardens across the country, thanks to the National Garden Scheme. The scheme was launched in 1927 & is now boasting over 3,500 gardeners who participate in the event.

The gardens are open to everybody, from beginner gardeners who seek to learn & establish ideas, to well-seasoned cultivators who wish to exchange tips & share knowledge. The gardens in the scheme are often the product of many years of nurturing, detailed care & attention that have created a diverse range of landscapes for visitors to enjoy.

You can be assured of a unique experience at every garden as each garden provides a unique setting & experience. At one garden, you may behold an exotic collection of trees, while another may offer a beautifully tended herbaceous border or a sculptured landscape garden. The participants are always ready to provide insight into the history, layout & design of the garden, making for an interactive & educational experience.

Enjoy the beauty of gardens, but also a chance contribute to charity. Every year, the proceeds from the garden visits are donated to support vital nursing & health sectors like Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK, The Queen’s Nursing Institute, & more.

The scheme also invites avid gardeners to open their gardens to the public & showcase their hard work & passion while sharing their expertise & ideas with like-minded enthusiasts. This way, the scheme has been successful in creating a community of people who share a love of gardening, exchange ideas & provide support to one another.

The NGS is an exciting & creative way to appreciate the art of gardening, while also contributing to charitable causes. It promotes a love for nature & shows the potential of gardening in enriching our lives in various ways. The scheme allows for interaction, sharing of knowledge, ideas & tips & provides an opportunity to learn at every step, from gardeners of all levels of experience. So, to those who haven’t yet, do visit one of these magnificent gardens this summer & experience the joy of nature while helping to make the world a better place.

Further Reading: Felbrigg Hall NT Walled Garden, Gooderstone Water Gardens, Oxburgh Hall Norfolk, The Vicarage East Ruston

Felbrigg Hall Norfolk – Walled Garden

If you love visiting gardens, then you will surely appreciate Felbrigg Hall’s walled garden, in the manner of a paradise garden, designed to evoke calm, reflection and contemplation. The National Trust has done an outstanding job maintaining it over the years, and it’s a must-visit garden for anyone looking for a little peace and tranquillity, amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The walled garden at Felbrigg Hall has thoughtful and clever planting that feature a wide variety of plants, flowers, herbs, fruit and vegetables. It is quite expansive, and one section is separated by paths at right angles, which is a hallmark of a paradise garden. The four parterres in this area are meticulously maintained and are a testament to the skill and dedication of those who work at Felbrigg Hall. The fragrant herbs and flowers in the garden add another layer of sensory experience that’s both delightful and invigorating.

A paradise garden is believed to have originated from the biblical story of the Garden of Eden. In the book of Genesis, the garden is described as having a central spring feeding four rivers flowing out into the world beyond. The symbolism of the paradise garden is evident in the walled garden at Felbrigg, with its four distinct parts and abundance of delicious foods, and a beautiful lily pad covered pond. It’s no wonder that the garden is such a tranquil and peaceful space, perfect for those looking for a little serenity in their lives.

But this garden is noted for its dovecote. The dovecote, dating back to 1750, contains 968 holes, deeply recessed at the back, with each hole providing room for two nests. R.W Ketton Cremer, the owner of the estate, renovated the dovecote in 1923 to prevent it from falling into ruin. The latin inscription above the door records the work undertaken, which reads ‘HOC Columbarium Olim paene Delapsum Reparavit Et Ornavit RWKC’ – This dovecote, which then was in ruins, was repaired and decorated by RWKC.

An excellent example of the Headache Tree, Umbellularia Californica, can be found within the walls of this garden. Headache Trees originate from California and were introduced into Britain by David Douglas in 1829. Native Americans made poultices of Umbellularia leaves that were used to treat rheumatism and neuralgias. Tea was made from the leaves to treat stomach aches, colds, sore throats and to clear up mucus in the lungs. The leaves were steeped in hot water to make an infusion that was used to wash sores. The Pomo and Yuki tribes of Mendocino County treated headaches by placing a single leaf in the nostril or bathing the head with a laurel leaf infusion.

This garden also features a nuttery that includes Cobnut, Black Mulberry and Walnut Trees. The nuttery serves as a home for the bantams and the bee hives and are a testament to the garden’s commitment to environmental sustainability and to providing a thriving habitat for a wide variety of creatures.

The walled garden at Felbrigg Hall is a true masterpiece of garden design and a testament to the hard work and dedication of National Trust staff. It’s a wonderful place to visit if you’re looking for a little peace and tranquillity in your life. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, the walled garden at Felbrigg Hall is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Further Reading: Felbrigg Hall NT Walled Garden, Gooderstone Water Gardens, Oxburgh Hall Norfolk, The Vicarage East Ruston

Looking for Garden Visit Inspiration – take a look at National Garden Scheme

The Dandelion

“I think things should be growing abundant and dandelions should rule the world,”

Drew Barrymore.

Dandelions are in abundance from the end of April. This bright sunny flower is fast working its way back into the affections of gardeners after decades of generally being under attack, being branded a weed and as such being blasted with weed killer. But the Dandelion represents the sun (the flower), the moon (clocks) and the stars (dispersing seeds).

The French word for Dandelion means “pee the bed”. The English name “Dandelion” comes from “tooth of the lion” in French. The weed was given its name because of the way the leaves are etched — some people thought the leaves looked like a lion’s mouth. There are several ,superstitions involving dandelions, including making a wish and blowing off all the dandelion seeds to make a wish come true, through to picking a Dandelion will make you wet the bed.

But the Dandelion has much to offer. Indeed they are considered a Superfood and are some of the most nutritionally dense greens you can eat. They are far more nutritious than spinach or kale and are full of vitamins, Minerals and Antioxidants: Vitamin A, C, E, K, B6, Beta Carotene, Folate, Thiamine, Ribofavin and Minerals; Potassium, Calcium and Manganese. In fact, a half-cup of dandelion greens has more calcium than a glass of milk!

The Dandelion leaves are diuretic which also replaces lost minerals naturally such as potassium. They can stabilize high blood pressure by removing fluid volume in the body. Its high volume of coumarins in the leaves help thing the blood allowing deposits and toxins to be freed up, moved on and eliminated. The leaves remove waste products via the kidneys and the roots remove them via the liver. When harvesting Dandelion Roots look for Dandelion rosettes emerging out of the soil in the early spring, before they’ve gone to flower. If the Dandelions have gone to flower the roots will have shrunk and will be bitter and woody because the as the plant has sent energy up to the flower.

Dandelion Uses:

Flowers and Leaves can be infused in Apple Cider Vinegar for a Spring Tonic.
Add Leaves & Petals to your salad. Can be used as a Garnish or in Pesto or Smoothies.
Make Fritters with whole Dandelion Flowers and a Pancake Mix.
Infuse into a base oil for a breast massage oil or for sore muscles.
Add flowers and leaves to your teapot for a delicious tea. For an improved brew add Cleavers and Nettles.
Dry the leaves to save for later use or tinctures.
Dry the flowers for later use in Teas. When drying the flowers, dry with the Sepal facing up otherwise they will turn into clocks.
Roasted Dandelion Root Coffee
They are delicious in stir fries or steamed veg or soups.
Try the buds pickled.
Make Dandelion Wine or Mead
Add to Cakes or Biscuits.
Make refreshing Dandelion Soda.
Make Dandelion blossom syrup/honey.
Use the stems as straws!