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Leeds dandelions plague
First it was greenfly, now parts of Leeds appear to have been hit by a second plague – dandelions.
Neil Hudson talked to experts to find out why
To most it's an unsightly common weed. And, like greenfly, the humble dandelion appears to have over-run gardens everywhere.
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But what, precisely, is behind its sudden growth in numbers?
According to experts, it's down to not only the weather but just possibly the European Union as well.
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Neil Windett, countryside manager in Kirklees, said: "This year was very cold to begin with and then all of a sudden it has warmed right up, meaning a lot of plants have gone to flower all at once. The dandelion explosion was predicted by some people."
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The European connection comes courtesy of recent European Union restrictions on the use of some pesticides.
In January 2009, dozens were banned and farmers urged to use natural forms of weed and pest control, including crop rotation.
It is thought because fewer pesticides are being used, weeds, including dandelions, have become more prevalent.
This might not be to everyone's taste – gardeners tend not to appreciate the beauty of a dandelion – but there is more to the humble weed than many imagine.
It is a plant long cherished by civilisations dating back to the Romans and beyond, mainly because it is entirely edible. Its roots can be dried and ground to make a caffiene-free coffee substitute; its leaves, which have a sharp, slightly bitter taste, can be eaten in salad and its flowers used either as a garnish or to make wine.
Amanda Walker, a countryside ranger at Oakwell Hall, Birstall, near Leeds, said: "The dandelion is a beneficial weed but has a bad reputation. It has been described as a plant which we once knew the use of but have since forgotten.
"Dandelion leaves contain abundant amounts of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins A , C and K. It is also a good source of calcium and iron, higher than spinach.
"The flower petals can be used to make dandelion wine and the roasted ground roots can used as a caffeine-free dandelion coffee.
"Dandelions are important for bees as a source of nectar and pollen early in the season."
Remember all that the next time you pick up a bag of expensive salad from the supermarket ...
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Weather for Leeds
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: East
