Foraging in Kansas in July: A Guide to Wild Edibles

Kansas, with its diverse landscapes of prairies, woodlands, and waterways, offers a bounty of wild edibles for the keen forager. July is a prime month for foraging, as many plants and fruits are at their peak. Whether you're a seasoned forager or a beginner, this guide will help you identify and safely harvest some of the best wild edibles Kansas has to offer in July. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Berries

Blackberries (Rubus spp.)

  • Identification: Look for dense thickets with arching canes. The berries start out green, then red, and turn black when fully ripe.

  • Habitat: Edges of woodlands, along trails, and in sunny clearings.

  • Harvesting Tips: Wear long sleeves to protect against thorns, and harvest only fully black, shiny berries for the best flavor.

Mulberries (Morus spp.)

  • Identification: Mulberry trees have simple, alternate leaves and produce clusters of small, dark purple to black berries.

  • Habitat: Found along streams, in open woods, and even in urban areas.

  • Harvesting Tips: Shake the branches gently over a cloth or tarp to collect ripe berries. They can stain, so be prepared.

2. Nuts and Seeds

Sunflower Seeds (Helianthus annuus)

  • Identification: Large, bright yellow flowers with a central disk that matures into seed heads.

  • Habitat: Open fields, prairies, and along roadsides.

  • Harvesting Tips: Wait until the flower heads droop and the backs turn brown. Cut the heads and allow them to dry before removing the seeds.

3. Edible Greens

Lamb’s Quarters (Chenopodium album)

  • Identification: Leaves are diamond-shaped and often have a powdery coating on the underside. The plant can grow up to 5 feet tall.

  • Habitat: Disturbed areas, gardens, and fields.

  • Harvesting Tips: Young leaves and shoots are best for eating. They can be used like spinach in salads, soups, and sautés.

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

  • Identification: Low-growing succulent with reddish stems and small, fleshy leaves. Leaves are paddle-shaped and smooth.

  • Habitat: Gardens, lawns, and disturbed soils.

  • Harvesting Tips: Harvest the tender stems and leaves, which have a slightly tangy, lemony flavor. Great in salads or as a cooked green.

4. Medicinal Plants

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

  • Identification: Feathery, fern-like leaves and clusters of small, white to pink flowers.

  • Habitat: Meadows, roadsides, and open woods.

  • Uses: Known for its medicinal properties, yarrow can be used to make teas, poultices, and tinctures. It’s often used for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.

Elderflower (Sambucus canadensis)

  • Identification: Large clusters of tiny, white flowers on a shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall.

  • Habitat: Moist areas, along streams, and forest edges.

  • Uses: Elderflowers can be used to make syrups, teas, and cordials. They are also used in traditional medicine to treat colds and flu.

Foraging Safety Tips

  1. Proper Identification: Always be sure of your plant identification before consuming any wild edible. Use a good field guide or consult with local foraging experts.

  2. Sustainable Harvesting: Only take what you need and ensure that plenty of the plant remains to continue growing and reproducing.

  3. Avoid Contaminated Areas: Do not forage near roadsides, industrial areas, or places where pesticides may have been used.

  4. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect private property, and be mindful of local wildlife.

July is a wonderful time to explore the wild edibles of Kansas. With a little knowledge and respect for nature, foraging can be a rewarding way to connect with the land and enjoy the bounty it provides. Whether you’re gathering sweet berries, nutritious greens, or medicinal plants, the Kansas landscape offers a rich variety of foraging opportunities. Happy foraging!

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