How To Learn Edible Plants

Many moons ago, I studied edible plants with an expert. Maybe you know someone like her, the person that goes through the woods browsing and grazing--blithely munching away at the buffet that the rest of us call a hiking trail.

During those studies, I learned to identify a lot of edible and medicinal plants. But probably the most valuable lesson was on how to learn the individual plants. It's a deceptively simple process, but could end up saving your life if you're ever thrust into a survival situation.

First, find a good field guide that teaches you about the dangerous stuff. Peterson's Field Guide to Venomous Animals & Poisonous Plants is a good place to start. Spend some time learning about the poisonous plants in your area. Learn to recognize them in all seasons and in all forms. Then stay away from those plants!

Second, get a good, reputable guide to edible plants. Again, Peterson's (Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants) is a good place to start.

Now, go through the field guide and make a list of all the edible plants found in your area. If you wish, you can prioritize the list by listing the most common species first, less common species further down the list.

Choose a plant to start with. For the next week, this is your plant.

Every day for the next 7 days you will look at the picture and read the description. After looking at the field guide, close the book. Close your eyes and try to picture the plant in your mind. Then, open your eyes and sketch the plant. If you can't draw, then write out a description that is as thorough as you can make it. This daily process shouldn't take more that 5-10 minutes. Don't make it difficult.

At the end of the week (or any day that works for you), go outdoors and collect some of the plants you are studying. Take it home, prepare it, and yes, eat it!

In one year, you will have intimate knowledge of 52 edible plants in your area. You'll have extra confidence, knowing that if you get lost, you won't go hungry!