Sunshine

Thursday I saw a break in the wet weather and mowed my lawn. Rain followed the next day and I felt very clever for having mowed during a brief window of opportunity. Now we've had 80 degree temperatures for the past three days.

Nevermind the intoxicating return of springtime. The combination of moisture and heat has not only inspired the grass to regain its lost height, but dandelions have bloomed all over the yard. It looks like I never touched the mower.

Rather than slide into Sisyphean musings about the futility of yardwork, I decided to examine dandelions up close.

It's easy to see where they get their name when you look at a dandelion petal. The end of the petal has a formation like a row of lion's teeth - dent de lion.

Dandelion roots and greens are used around the world medicinally. Interestingly, just when you need a good springtime tonic, dandelions spring up everywhere. A few of the many ways and reasons to ingest dandelion:

• Dandelion roots are good for the liver.
• Juice from the dandelion acts as an astringent for skin ailments such as warts and callouses.
• Dandelions have lots of nutrients so they are used in salads and as tea.

Diabetics and people allergic to dandelions should avoid using them.

Dandelions and other weeds are good for the soil. These hardy plants can grow deeply in unforgiving soil and bring nutrients up to the surface that are good for other plants. Earthworms like soil around dandelions because the weed produces humus.

Finally I have to admit that I love the bright flowers. A splash of color that brightens a sunny day. I guess I better get the mower out again.