It is that time of year again. Dandelions are now in season. Of course every hunting season has rules and regulations, and opposition.

 1. Bagging limits.

• Side one: Kill ‘em all.
• Side two: Bag and make salads, wine, roasted dandelion root tea.

2. Killing techniques.

• Side one: Chemical warfare.
• Side two: Can’t we all just get along?

3. Invasion restrictions.

• Side one: How dare they breed in our lawns.
• Side two: Make wishes by blowing on the seed heads.

4. Textural acceptances.

• Side one: Uneven, there can only, only be fine textured blades.
• Side two: Diversity.

5. Flower recognition.

• Side one: UGH!
• Side two: Oh how pretty my lawn looks!

6. Non chemical removal options.

• Side one: They are so hard to pull out! Get the chemicals.
• Side two: Look how that nice tap root creates better soil!

If you are side one-ers, don’t forget your orange hunting vests, respirators, long pants, rubber gloves and shoes. If you are a side two-er, don’t forget your kitchen shears, plate, fork and salad dressing.

Inspectors are everywhere, and may or may not be carrying their badges of honor. Dandelions are opportunistic and may be spotted anywhere. Remember this season to choose carefully and be respectful.

Holding a fork ...

Erica