Feeding and Nutrition :: Dandelion Question

[Just Jule]

OK call me confused but am I understanding the weed in my flowers is good for my little turts? Or is this some special green thing?

I just want to make sure I am doing everything correctly and I have learned so much here and can usually find answers to my questions by reading but not this time!

Thanks

[octpusgirl8]

Dandelion leaves from the garden/yard are fine for your turtles, but only if you don't use pesticides/other chemicals. You can sometimes find farmed dandelion greens at the grocery store.

[TheComputerGremlin]

People eat dandelion greens all the time, esp in those salad mixes. Only take them from your yard if you are sure they are safe, like no pesticides from you or neighbors. You can grow your own if you just take a potted plant and put it on a deck or window. Don't feed the flowers though, I don't think those are as healthy.

[Just Jule]

Thanks! Maybe this will make "weeding" something I look forward to doing!

[marisa]

Both my turts and I love dandelion greens. I like the ones from the yard as well as the store-bought variety in salads, but my turtle prefer store-bought ones, specifically the organic ones, which are tender and not at all bitter (and more expensive). I have spoiled turtles.

[donchewliano]

Hurley prefers Dandelion greens over red and green leaf (when he's in the mood to eat his greens). I on the other hand am afraid to try them. I don't like bitter greens.

[marisa]

If you get them when the leaves are smaller and more tender, they're really not that bitter. The leaves become much more bitter when the plant flowers (so if you're going to pick them from the yard, do it before they bloom).

[industrial_girl_2000]

Thanks! Maybe this will make "weeding" something I look forward to doing!

FYI - dandelion "weeds" are very nutritious (high in iron) and are great for the environment because they help clean up chemical wastes. If you notice, the more people spray for weeds in their yards, the more dandelions (and other "weeds") pop up everywhere else. Dandelions may appear to be a bit of a nuisance, but they really are good for the earth.

[Rottie_mom]

Here in Houston, TX, Whole foods carry dandillion leaves and it is less than $2 for a big bunch