I am a dandelion, one of many in this yard.
Our stems stand tall, our flowers bloom round and full
We proudly declare that this lawn has no spray
We are proof that pesticides do not defile this space
It’s a safe place, a chemical-free oasis
For kids and pets to romp and run
For squirrels and birds to crunch and munch
Neighboring yards lack dandelions
They boast smooth carpets of green grass
Manicured precisely with lawnmowers
They often sport “keep out” pesticide signs
Many people crave these yards
They spend years perfecting them
Applying chemicals to eliminate “weeds”
We dandelions grace this yard with our presence
Happily co-existing with its plants and animals
Pollinators buzz around with joy
Chipmunks and deer chomp our leaves
Sparrows delight in eating our seeds
Clover cheerfully grows among us
Together we thrive.
Kristi Jones is a poet who lives, works, and writes in Madison, WI. She relishes time outdoors, particularly in her vegetable garden. Kristi loves re-wilded yards and wishes she had one. Dandelions are beautiful to her and she admires lawns filled with them. Kristi holds a BA from St Olaf College.