Wilko Weed Killer

 

While you could get Mattress Toppers upstairs at Wilko's with pretty photos of dandelions on the packaging, you could also get weedkiller downstairs to wipe them out from your garden path (see previous post).

The dandelion is almost exclusively used to represent all 'weeds' on weed killer products. Some people think that dandelions should be eradicated from their lawns and paths, and will use chemicals again and again to kill them off. 

What's so 'bad' about the dandelion? The dandelion is vital as an early source of nectar and pollen for insects, they are incredibly beautiful in both their flower and seed head stage, and pretty much every part of the dandelion is edible.... but they are common, resilient, persistent and perennial. Is that the problem? Be proud the dandelion has taken root in your lawn! You are helping pollinators by leaving them where they are.

Helen Thomas Dandelions

There's a new exhibition of beautiful paintings by Helen Thomas opening next month at Wakefield Cathedral. Dandelions and Double Yellows runs from 10 July - 15 August 2021.

She's also asking for submissions for an online gallery of pavement plants. There's more details and information on how to send your photos on Helen's website (the final deadline for submissions is 23 July 2021).

I'm in Wakefield in July and plan to go and visit the show. I can't wait to see Helen's work: weeds & dandelions are right up my (overgrown) street.

Image: Helen Thomas