What are effective methods to organically cultivate dandelions for tea?
I'm currently running a small organic farm in California where I’m keen on integrating dandelion plants into my garden for tea production. I’ve been studying various methods of cultivation, particularly focusing on organic practices that align with my sustainable farming techniques. My garden setup includes both hydroponic systems and traditional soil beds, and I’m looking to optimize the growth of dandelions in a way that maintains soil health while maximizing yield. I've attempted growing dandelions from seed and noticed some variability in their germination rates. I'm curious about the best organic fertilizers or soil amendments to support their growth. Can anyone share their experiences with cultivating dandelions organically? Are there specific companion plants that enhance their growth or any pest control measures that work well? Your insights would be greatly appreciated!