How to i.d eatable wild plants...?
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Answers:
Here is a list of edible flowers:
http://homecooking.about.com/library/wee...
Here is a list of edible plants:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/list_of_pla...
There are actually a lot of good books and guides on this topic! Check it out at your local bookstore -- I know my Borders has a bunch.
You could use a guide, but unless you are comfortable with your local botany, that will not help at all. Only because hte picture may not be good, or you catch the leaves and blooms at a stage not illustrated.
I'd say the best way is to check and register for a class in your area. Herbalists, nature gardens, nurseries, heck even wiccans may offer classes and seminaries on medicinal herbs and plants!
As much fun as wild gathering is, be veeeerrrryyyy careful that you are positive that you are harvesting the correct plant or plant part;( i.e. poke weed shoots are edible, the leaves and berries are toxic). Our parks have medicinal and wild plant seminars, so might look for that in your state. There are many publications to read up on the subject, but working with an expert is the best. Try:
http://www.edibleplants.com/
You will need a good field guide, Peterson has one. Best to go along with someone experienced as some plants are deadly.
Finally, remember it is illegal to take plants or parts of plants from land you do not own. That includes parks, roadsides and farmer's woodlots. You can only collect wild food from land that you, yourself, own or from land where the landowner has given you permission.
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