Ever wonder if the weeds you are pulling from your yard are edible but were too afraid to try them in case they are toxic? Or perhaps you want to eat more locally - nothing closer than your yard or your neighbors. Or you are just a die-hard environmentalist and are concerned about the carbon footprint of your food.
Or perhaps this thought never even crossed your mind! I mean really - who would eat dandelions, nettles or even purslane? Besides how do you know what plants are safe to eat? How do you collect and prepare what you find?
Edible weeds are frequently discarded by home gardeners who just aren't aware of the nutritive and culinary value simply because they are not educated about them. Same goes for flowers. They are more than just lovely to look at. You can eat the flower petals of pansies, nasturtiums, stock and Johnny-jump-ups to name a few!
There may also be a local foraging group near you. Some urban areas have a group led by someone who knows what to look for and they walk through neighborhoods and parks foraging for wild or native foods. Caution should be used when collecting plants from the wild. Some of them may be toxic to the belly or even irritate the skin. Always be sure you know what you are eating!
If you are foraging in areas closer to home or in an urban area be sure you know if anyone is using any chemicals around the plants you harvest. Be cautions against getting them from roadsides, where rainwater may have washed oils and other harmful substances off the road onto the plants. This is one reason I like to take what is in MY yard - I know what is and is not used!
So keep your mind open and your weeds growing until you know whether or not you may be throwing out something that you can eat! Take the time to learn more about all of the wonderful plants that grow naturally where you live. It's the 'green' thing to do!
Doreen Pollack is the Garden Goddess and owner of Down 2 Earth Gardens, providing garden consultations and coaching. Join her for gardening tips at monthly workshops or schedule a home consultation. To find a workshop near you, visit www.down2earthgardens.com or call 623.217.6038
