If you were asked to make a list of edible plants you would most likely envision a farm list what you see growing on that man-made plot. However before we mastered agriculture we foraged. We consumed what was native in the area for our nutritional needs and learned what plants cured our ailments. Native plants evolved and adapted into species that are perfectly suited for their environment. They work together with the weather, land, native species, and native people who understand and nurture this connection.
If we are going to work towards a real local and sustainable food system we must begin integrating native plants into our farms and gardens. Farming native plants takes much less maintenance because they have adapted to the environment. Little attention needs to be put on pest control, irrigation, and adding nutrients. Also since they adapted with the rest of the local environment they can help conserve soil, water, and energy as well as provide habitat and shelter to many native insects and animals that can help you combat pests that could attack the rest of your crops.
A good way to learn about the native species in your area and explore which you may want to integrate into your farm or garden is to forage. Online you can find recommendations for books on foraging in your area, information on guided tours or classes, and blogs by local foragers that will tell you where to find certain plants as well as recipes to show you how to integrate native foods into your diet. One thing to keep in mind when planning a foraging trip is to know where you are allowed to forage and to be respectful of treaty rights given to First Nations people over certain areas.
Some good resources for the Pacific Northwest are:
Books:
Northwest Foraging: a guide to edible plants of the Pacific Northwest
By Doug Benoliel
Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West
By Michael Moore
Classes:
http://www.wildernesscollege.com/wild-mushroom-identification.html
Blogs:
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