7 common plants to forage in the spring



The weather has been improving and we are getting outside a lot more. One thing my boys and I love to do is forage for wild plants we can use. Some we eat/drink and others we use for healing. 
This year we are trying to start a healing garden at the house.

I once made a list of all the plants we could forage from our property and within walking distance. Did you know we had over 35 useful plants nearby?! I bet you hadn't even considered some of these plants. Let's look at at some late spring foraging for Southern Ontario.



Dandelion Botanists consider dandelions to be herbs. People use the leaves, stem, flower, and root of the dandelion for medicinal purposes. 



Plantain- The young, tender leaves can be eaten raw, and the older, stringier leaves can be boiled in stews and eaten. We use is for stings, scrapes, creams and coughs.

Blackberry, raspberry, strawberry leaves - These are amazing for teas and have many healing properties.



Burdock - Burdock leaves are great for stings and rashes, while the roots have other helpful properties.


Wild violet - Known to strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation. Spring is a typical time for sore throats, colds, sinus infections, and other respiratory conditions. Violets, eaten or taken as a tea can help soothe these issues


Chives - We have these growing wild in our back yard. They taste great in salads and other dishes. My boys like to snack on them.



Garlic mustard Garlic mustard is edible and should be harvested when young. The roots taste much like horseradish and the leaves are bitter when mature. The first-year plant is a rosette, and its leaves can be harvested year around.

What else would you add to the list?


If you love nature you'll love this series about exploring nature through the 5 senses.  Learn more about sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch.

Comments

  1. What a great list! I can't wait to show my daughter as she's really into using plants for their purposes!

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    1. Isn't it amazing how many plants are useful for our healing and heath

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  2. We love dandelions for salads and making salves. Some of my other favorites to forage for in spring are chicory and fir tips.

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    Replies
    1. Yes I forgot fir tips! I learning about new plants to try. Thanks for sharing.

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