Why are dandelions a better competitor than other plants on school fields?

Answer 1

The dandelion produces seeds mainly in spring but continues through summer and autumn. The bitter leaves mean that not many animals eat it, so one flower can survive for many years. Dandelions are also adapted to being disturbed, so being moved doesn't limit their ability to grow. The deep, twisted, brittle root makes it difficult to remove entirely so unless you remove it entirely it will just regrow. The dandelion has a rosette of leaves at its base to help it compete with the surrounding grass. They can grow almost anywhere because of their resilience, and their small parachute like seeds, mean that they can be blown many miles from their mother plant. Dandelions also don't mind being trampled on meaning that they can survive where people walk often.

Answer 2

Dandelions are better competitors on school fields because they have deep taproots that allow them to access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers. They also produce a lot of seeds that are easily dispersed, helping them colonize new areas quickly. Additionally, dandelions are resilient and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions and withstand frequent mowing.