How to Forage - a simple guide
Let’s dive into how to forage in this post. If you’d like some simple steps on how to start an herbal practice, click below.
You’ve found the herb/plant that you are looking for but aren’t sure what to do next. Continue reading this post for some simple tips and jump into foraging! For your first forage, choose something simple and that is nearly impossible to mistakenly identify. See my previous post for great ways to get started.
Foraging steps
Let’s get prepared to ethically forage your plant companions.
Ethical foraging is of the utmost importance. If you are on your own land, like I am - it’s understandable to forage more than you would in the forest, woods, or open meadows. I can control what is grown or even give a little push with natural fertilizers or weeding invasive species I don’t want.
But, if you are foraging/gathering in the “wild” - it is important to do a little research and planning first.
Look your plant up. Make sure you aren’t foraging something that is endangered or at risk in your area.
Make a plan. After you have found and positively identified your herb, don’t stray from that plan. Even if you find something else amazing. Note it’s location and do your research before you go back to gather the newly found plant. Maybe gather one to ensure proper identification.
Inform or partner up. Always tell someone where you will be going and for how long. Or go foraging with a buddy.
Grab your supplies. Make sure you have a receptacle. I prefer a basket, but I made a forager’s blanket I’ve used a bit and have also used newspaper in a pinch. Sharp pruning shears. Bugspray or essential oils. And WATER. Lots of it. Always stay hydrated.
Only forage from safe/clean areas - If unsure if an area is “treated” or sprayed with pesticides, it is better to not gather from those locations.
Scout. Check your location. Is there an abundance of the items or is it a sparce patch? My elderflower picture from above is the only one of my new bushes that flowered this year, so I did not collect any. But, if it was like my echinacea patch that was in it’s 2nd year and thriving, I would grab more. If in doubt - Less is best.
Use the rule of three. If your plant is abundant then forage 1 out of 3. If the patch is sparce or something that is not readily available only gather 1 plant out of 9.
Mark the spot. Write the location of your discovery in your log book or materia medica (medicine book). Write the date; the location with directions on how you got there; landmarks; and abundance of the plants.
Start foraging and enjoy yourself. Stop back by and we will getting into how to store and dry your harvest soon.
