Ups & Downs of a Dandelion

I noticed this a few years ago and now see it all the time.  Dandelions raised their pretty yellow heads to the sun, as do their clocks full of seeds when they are ready to blow away. 

But in between, the heads are lowered and are often horizontal. And before the flowers open fully the stalks take time to erect.

I can only guess it is to protect their investment, but maybe also to allow as much space as possible for the heads that are ready for the main two tasks.

My extra was nearly my main under the heading 'Returning to its roots'. This tree blew down some years ago and is gradually rotting back into the ground.  A lot more time is needed before it will completely return to the soil.