Memorial Day Suburban wild edibles.
Some people equate wild edibles with the backcountry but urban and suburban settings have lots of habitat which can replicate fields and their margins. In observance of Memorial Day we had a family gathering like millions of others. Just for fun I spent a short time seeing how many wild edibles can be found in a New England suburban environment this time of year. being far from perfect misidentifications are possible. Dont eat anything unless youre 100% certain of the identity.
The property.
The walkway was a win with both strawberries and white clover both edible.
Growing in the shade of the house by the side of the front steps are wood sorrel and violets. The larger sorrel was eaten because I just like the flavor. The violets are past bloom but the leaves are edible and not all that disagreeable.
Ok lets head out into the yard! First up we have more violets growing within the grass under shaded areas.
Wow. Thats a bunch of wild edibles!
The lawn was mowed making finding dandelions a bit harder but the leaves were still there and edible.
This looks like common plantain mixed in with grass and clover. The very young plantain leaves are edible but think the older ones are better suited to other uses. In any case I dont eat it. The clover leaves are edible but mostly consume the young flowers as a trail side snack. Not exactly tail mix but can be a bit sweet. I never ate clover roots but believe if cooked theyre edible. Do your own research on that last part.
The margins of most yards, parks or clearings can be very much like those of any field. Growing along the margins of the backyard are Red raspberry bushes. The berries are just starting and wont be ready for weeks but the leaves can be used to make a healthy tea.
These look like grape leaves growing along the margins as well. I dont eat grape leaves gathered in the field. I read they must be well boiled 10-15 minutes with the young growth being preferable.
Issues with suburban/urban wild edibles.
People spray their yards with a multitude of chemicals in an attempt to create and maintain an idyllic lawn aka an unnatural environment. Clearly this isnt for me but keep the chemical usage of others in mind. Road run-off has its own share of contamination which should be considered.
