I don’t see “weeds” the same way many others do. \u00a0Land recently cleared, then left unused, tends to sprout scenic collages that fascinate me. \u00a0The widely differing colors and structures, abundant with energy and purpose, I find much more inspiring than a uniform lawn with some neatly planted flowers.<\/p>\n
Yes, I have a lawn, which I do try to keep weed-free. \u00a0(I never use chemicals to do so, just elbow grease.) \u00a0However, the fringes of my yard – because of its odd shape, it has many – I’m happy to leave to the weeds, at least for a month or two at a time.<\/p>\n
One weed I’m always pleased to see in my yard is the dandelion. \u00a0From the lawn, I pull it up, then drop it for mulch. \u00a0In the less-traveled parts of the yard I let it flourish, because I eat the greens (not the flowers).<\/p>\n
As a kid I recall hearing the importance of green, leafy vegetables. \u00a0I hold up dandelion greens as a great example. \u00a0From March through October, they are a staple of my vegetable intake.<\/p>\n
A caution for anyone tempted to eat dandelion greens from a yard: make sure no pesticides have been used there. \u00a0If you can’t be sure, you’re probably best off not to take the chance.<\/strong><\/p>\n Dandelion greens offer a wide range of potential health benefits, which I’ll discuss in future posts:)<\/p>\n