Dandelion Fun: 7 Awesome Ideas to Utilize MT’s Favorite Weed

BUTTE, MT - Every spring, as the last of Montana’s snow retreats into the mountains and the days stretch just a bit longer, a familiar sight takes over our fields, sidewalks, and backyards: dandelions.

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These golden bursts of color seem to appear overnight, dotting the landscape with such enthusiasm you’d think they were formally invited. But while most Montanans treat them as unwelcome guests—yanked out of gardens or sprayed into oblivion—there’s another way to look at these so-called weeds: as a gift!

Dandelions have been around for centuries, and long before they became the bane of suburban lawns, they were prized for their versatility.

From tea to tinctures, crafts to cuisine, these hardy little flowers are practically begging to be used. And in a state like Montana, where nature is part of our identity and sustainability isn’t just a trend: it’s a lifestyle—finding creative uses for what grows freely around us just makes sense.

The 7 Best Things You Can Do With Dandelions in Montana

Maybe you’ve seen your neighbor’s kids blowing puffballs across the yard or noticed bees buzzing happily from bloom to bloom. Maybe you’ve even wondered, “Are these actually good for something?”

The answer is a resounding yes. Whether you’re a homesteader, a DIY enthusiast, or just looking to get more out of your backyard, dandelions offer an abundance of possibilities.

So before you mow them down or wage chemical war, take a pause. We’ve rounded up seven surprisingly fun and practical things Montanans can do with dandelions—and some might just become your new favorite spring ritual.