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Dandelions are one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, full of vitamins and minerals. Greens of a Dandelion are low in calories and high in protein. But what if you don’t have a garden? What if your yard is too shady for dandelions to grow? What if you live in an apartment or condo with no yard at all? If so, growing dandelion indoors might just be your best option!
The dandelion is a hardy plant that can grow in the harshest of conditions. It's also one of the first plants to emerge after the winter and can be found growing in lawns everywhere.
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and delicious addition to any diet. They're full of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron.
However, if you're living in an urban area where dandelions don't grow naturally or your yard has been chemically treated with weed killer then this is the perfect project for you! Follow these simple steps to add some dandelion greens into your life without even having to step outside.
Choosing The Pot
First, pick out a pot. A three-gallon pot will be big enough for a dandelion plant. It's important to know what type of pot you can use for a dandelion pot. You'll need something with drainage holes in the bottom that will accommodate the height of your plants. If your pots don't have any holes, be sure to poke some! The best containers are those made out of plastic or clay. Terracotta pots are another option, but they tend to dry out too quickly, so you'll need water more often.
I used a one-gallon pot for this dandelion and it did well but I'll try a three-gallon pot for the next one I grow in a pot.
Starting Dandelion Seeds
Using soil blocks is an excellent way to start your seeds. Make your soil blocks, add them to a clear plastic container, and place them in a sunny location or under grow lights. Using a plastic container with a lid will create condensation so your seeds will stay moist and they will not need to water continually. Doing this will ensure that your seedlings will not be leggy when they germinate because they will have light soon after germination. When seedlings don't get the sunlight or grow light, they will grow tall and skinny. These will not be healthy or strong seedlings.
Using a heat mat will also help your seedlings to germinate. Dandelion seeds germinate best in temperatures from 60 degrees to 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Preparing The Soil Mix
I prefer to make a soil mix myself, but you may also choose a good potting soil. I like Happy Frog Potting Soil. It's essential to make sure you use a potting mix if you buy soil. Buying potting soil will get expensive. Well-draining soil is vital for growing in pots. Dandelion needs well-draining loamy soil rich in organic matter.
A good soil mixture is one part compost, one part coco coir, and one part perlite. I add three tablespoons of greensand, three tablespoons of bone meal, three tablespoons of blood meal, and one tablespoon of azomite to the mix. This is what I use for a three-gallon container.
Sunlight Requirements
Dandelion can have full sun or partial shade, I like to have at least six hours of sun.
Water Requirements
Water at least twice a week.
Dandelion Nutrition
Dandelion greens might be the most nutritious leafy green in your arsenal. Dandelions have been used for food since the 17th century. The leaves and even the flowers and roots of this plant are nutritious! Also has been used for centuries to treat seasonal allergies, and with good reason - it’s loaded with vitamins A, C and K as well as vitamin E. Dandelions also provide a substantial amount of calcium, iron, and magnesium which are all essential nutrients that maintain bone health among other things!
The humble dandelion is a highly nutritious plant, loaded with vitamins and minerals. Dandelions' ability to grow almost anywhere make them an excellent addition on any plate! The greens can be eaten raw or can be cooked (and you'll get the most nutrients by eating it raw).
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