The Dandelion Project

The Dandelion Project (Est. 2024) is a collaboration between local farmers, people, the soil and the elements. Based in far West Cornwall it is inspired by the abundance and multiple benefits of dandelions for the soil, pollinators and us. The projects aims to; strengthen community and create a low-impact product, as close to carbon neutral as possible, while celebrating this humble 'weed'.

'I feel really good having had an hour outside with you lot and the forces of nature.

I'm cold and happy - we did it!

I've learnt so much about dandelions - they're amazing!'

Dandelion Digging participants

What we do

Throughout autumn and winter we meet for two-hours to dig by hand up to 20% (every 5th dandelion) with permission from the farmers, leaving plenty to help bring valuable nutrients to the soil. The roots are then washed, dried and roasted by hand in small batches to create a healthy, truly locally-made, drink.

Dandelions represent STRENGTH, RESILIENCE and are full of NOURISHING NUTRITION.

Benefits for the soil and for people

We remove unwanted weeds in a low-impact, chemical-free way, while leaving plenty behind to improve the soil. It's what dandelions do! We get some exercise and fresh air while building our resilience through a short burst of time outside. We drink hot and wild dandelion drinks to keep spirits high and learn about these amazing plants through taste. Hands in the soil puts us in touch with mood-enhancing microbes, while time outdoors is proven to help counter anxiety and depression.

Dandelions roots are rich in inulin, a prebiotic that promotes good gut bacteria which is essential for our health. Dandelion leaves are so good for you too, containing nutrients from calcium to vitamin C and iron. You can read more about dandelions: 10 Qualities of this Wonder Weed.

The Product - Dandelion Cola

To complete the process the roasted roots are then locally fermented into a 'Wild Dandelion Cola' and sold in returnable bottles less than 10 miles from where they have grown. Full of prebiotic and wild goodness, the taste is reminiscent of the cola flavoured sweets of my childhood. Available at Argoe restaurant and Newlyn Fermentary shop on Friday and Saturday.

Get involved...

Contact me if you'd like to join a Dandelion Digging event to learn about dandelions while getting some exercise and time outdoors with others. I provide hot, wild and local dandelion tea and wild dandelion caffience-free 'coffee' while we connect to nature and these amazing roots.