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Dandelions are cool. They rush to greet people with the first breeze of spring, and, if allowed, stay until the snow falls. There is nothing quite so cheery as a field of bright yellow dandelions after a cold winter to let you know nicer times are ahead, and few things more entertaining to the young at heart than blowing the seeds off a fluffy white "clock."

Dandelions are no fools. They know how to take care of themselves, growing their roots far down into the ground so even during drought conditions they can continue to bloom. The flower heads know when it's time to sleep, which makes them smarter than some of the gardeners who spend all day yanking them out of the earth.

Dandelions will take care of the people who appreciate them. The leaves, which are capable of stealing the light from anything growing too close, can supply more vitamins to those who dare to eat them than spinach. The flowers can be turned into wine, and the root can help digestion.

So think twice the next time you plan to pull the mighty dandelion-they're free, they're resilient, and if you have little else growing in your yard, those friendly little flowers will prevent your soil from washing away.

Learn more about this author, Lynda Naclerio.
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