How can I grow some dandelions for my tortoise?
Harriet, by email
ABOB SAYS The simplest way is to ask friends if you can dig up plants from their gardens. Most people will be pleased to get rid of some. If you trim the leaves back, the plants should transplant well at almost any time of year, as they have a vigorous root system with at least one deep storage root. Dig out as much of the long root as possible and plant carefully into a deep hole. Water regularly while the plants settle back in.
You could also grow new plants from seed collected from dandelion ‘clocks’, almost all year round. Sow in a tray of compost and place in a sheltered spot. Water regularly and pot on as they grow, until large enough to be planted into their final spot.
Dandelion seeds are also sold online to grow as salad leaves or for blanching. As well as the wild form, you may find varieties such as ‘Thick-Leaved’ or ‘A Coeur Plein’. The leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals, with a bitter flavour.
Producing offspring in this way is quicker than reproducing by seed