Wild Edible Plants of New England: Locate, Identify, Store, and Prepare Your Foraged Finds

By Shannon Warner

Ready to discover the mouthwatering treasures hiding in New England's wilderness

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rowan's publishing, LLC.
• Release date: May 3, 2024
• ISBN: 9798330205554

Shannon Warner

Shannon Warner is a long-time forager and survivalist with a deep love for the outdoors. She has spent countless hours exploring the wilderness, learning about the plants and animals that inhabit it, and honing her skills in sustainable harvesting and ethical foraging. She has embarked on many adventures with her two loyal dogs by her side, from hiking and camping to hunting and fishing.One of her core beliefs is in sustainable harvesting and ethical foraging. She firmly believes that it is possible to enjoy the bounty of nature without causing harm to the environment or depleting its resources. In her books, she provides practical tips and advice on how to forage in a way that is both sustainable and respectful of the natural world.Whether you are an experienced forager or a beginner looking to learn more about the plants that grow in your backyard, Shannon's book is an invaluable resource that will inspire and inform you. With her expert guidance, you, too, can discover the many benefits of wild edible plants and unlock the secrets of the natural world.

Book preview

Wild Edible Plants of New England

WILD EDIBLE PLANTS OF NEW ENGLAND

LOCATE, IDENTIFY, STORE, AND PREPARE YOUR FORAGED FINDS

FORAGE AND FEAST SERIES: COMPREHENSIVE GUIDES TO FORAGING ACROSS AMERICA

SHANNON WARNER

Rowan’s Publishing

Copyright © 2024 by Shannon Warner and Rowan’s Publishing, LLC.

All rights reserved.

This book is copyright-protected. Unauthorized reproduction, duplication, or transmission of its content is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action.

By reading this book, the reader agrees that under no circumstances is the author responsible for any losses, direct or indirect, which are incurred as a result of the use of the information contained within this book, including, but not limited to, — errors, omissions, or inaccuracies.

This book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This book may not be resold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each reader. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, please visit your favorite book retailer to purchase your copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

CONTENTS

Also by Shannon Warner

I. Why Forage?

Wander & Gather

Foraging Sustainability and Ethics

II. States

1. Connecticut

2. Maine

3. Massachusetts

4. New Hampshire

5. Rhode Island

6. Vermont

Note from the Publisher

III. Fruits and Berries

7. American Cranberry

8. American Plum

9. Black Crowberry

10. Black Currant

11. Black Huckleberry

12. Bunchberry

13. Cloudberry

14. Cowberry

15. Dewberry

16. Eastern Teaberry

17. Nantucket Shadbush

18. Sea Buckthorn

19. Swamp Red Currant

20. Thimbleberry

IV. Herbs and Grasses

21. Blue Vervain

22. Boneset

23. Canadian Goldenrod

24. Canadian Wild Ginger

25. Catnip

26. Comfrey

27. Deer Tongue Grass

28. Jewelweed

29. Lemon Balm

30. Poverty Oatgrass

31. Red Clover

32. Softstem Bulrush

33. Stinging Nettle

34. Valerian

35. Wild Mint

36. Yarrow

V. Trees and Nuts

37. Eastern Hemlock

38. Eastern White Pine

39. Hophornbeam

40. Northern Red Oak

41. Paper Birch

42. Red Spruce

43. Sugar Maple

44. Swamp White Oak

45. Yellow Birch

VI. Mushrooms and Fungi

46. American Matsutake

47. Bear's Head

48. Candy Cap

49. Cauliflower

50. Cinnabar Red Chanterelle

51. Crown-tipped Coral

52. Hedgehog

53. Lion's Mane

54. Reishi

55. Shaggy Mane

56. Shiitake

57. Turkey Tail

58. Velvet Foot

59. Wood Ear

VII. Seaweed

60. Bladderwrack

61. Dead Man's Fingers

62. Gulfweed

63. Irish Moss

64. Knotted Wrack

65. Nori

66. Oarweed

67. Ornate Reef Weed

68. Sea Belt

69. Sea Colander

70. Sea Comb

71. Sea Lettuce

VIII. Poisonous

72. Bulbous Buttercup & White Baneberry

73. False Hellebore & Fly Agaric

74. Indian Tobacco & Jack-in-the-Pulpit

75. Jimsonweed & Monkshood

76. Poison Sumac & Water Hemlock

77. Bittersweet Nightshade

IX. Recipes

78. American Matsutake Mushroom Rice

79. Black Huckleberry Pie

80. Cranberry Chutney

81. Goldenrod Eggs

82. Hophornbeam Seed Energy Bites

83. Jewelweed Tincture

84. Lion's Mane Mushroom Stir Fry

85. Poverty Oatgrass Porridge

86. Sea Belt Salad

87. Sea Buckthorn Berry Smoothie

88. Sea Lettuce Sheet

89. Shaggy Mane Mushrooms with Garlic and Butter

90. Stinging Nettle Tincture

91. Sugar Maple Syrup

92. Teaberry Ice Cream

93. Vegan Irish Moss Pudding

94. Velvet Foot Soup

95. Yarrow Tea

96. Yarrow Tincture

97. Yellow Birch Glazed Salmon

Afterword

X. Appendix

Universal Edibility Test

Glossary

About the Author

Bibliography

ALSO BY SHANNON WARNER

Individual Books:

Wild Edible Plants of the Mid-Atlantic

Wild Edible Plants of California

Wild Edible Plants of the Pacific Northwest

Wild Edible Plants of Texas

Wild Edible Plants of the Great Lakes (Coming Soon)

Wild Edible Plants of the Great Plains (Coming Soon)

Wild Edible Plants of the Southeast (Coming Soon)

Wild Edible Plants of the Gulf Coast (Coming Soon)

Wild Edible Plants of the Upper Midwest (Coming Soon)

Wild Edible Plants of the Rocky Mountains (Coming Soon)

2-in1 Guides:

Wild Edibles of the West Coast (California & the Pacific Northwest)

Wild Edibles of the Northeast (Mid-Atlantic & New England)

Foraging the Wild South (Texas & the Southwest)

Foraging the Midwest (Coming Soon)

Foraging the Southeast (Coming Soon)

Foraging the North (Coming Soon)

New England has a harsh climate, a barren soil, a rough and stormy coast, and yet we love it, even with a love passing that of dwellers in more favored regions.

-HENRY CABOT LODGE

PART ONE

WHY FORAGE?

WANDER & GATHER

A FORAGER'S GUIDE TO NEW ENGLAND

Welcome to the enchanting world of foraging, where every step is a discovery and every plant holds a story waiting to be told. In the lush landscapes of New England, where verdant forests meet rocky coastlines and fertile fields stretch as far as the eye can see, an abundance of wild treasures awaits those with a keen eye and a curious spirit.

As you embark on this journey with me, imagine yourself stepping into a natural pantry, overflowing with nature's bounty. From the sweet tang of wild berries to the delicate fragrance of woodland herbs, each foraged find is a testament to the rich tapestry of life that thrives in this corner of the world.

In these pages, we'll delve into the art and science of foraging, weaving together ancient wisdom with modern knowledge to unlock the secrets of the land. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a curious beginner, there's something here for everyone to discover.

But foraging is more than just a means of gathering sustenance; it's a way of connecting with the earth on a deeply personal level. It's about forging a relationship with the land that sustains us, learning to listen to its whispers and honor its gifts with gratitude.

Throughout this book, we'll explore the diverse ecosystems of New England, from the rugged mountains of Vermont to the sandy shores of Cape Cod. We'll learn to identify edible plants, mushrooms, and wild fruits, and uncover the hidden gems that lie hidden beneath the forest canopy.

But foraging is not without its risks, and it's essential to approach this practice with care and respect. We'll discuss the importance of sustainable foraging practices, ensuring that we leave behind no trace and harvest in harmony with nature's rhythms.

So, whether you're drawn to the thrill of the hunt or the simple pleasure of a stroll through the woods, I invite you to join me on this forager's odyssey through the heart of New England. Together, let's wander and gather, and let the beauty of the natural world be our guide.

FORAGING SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICS

Foraging is rewarding, you can find some exotic and tasty things, but there are some basics you need to learn before heading out. Let's face facts, you can eat a tasty-looking mushroom if you don't know what it is, but you may only be able to do that once.

Your top priority is understanding the health and safety concerns of foraging and the how-to in Identify edible plants to avoid anything poisonous. In a survival situation, it's better to go without food than to eat something that makes you sick.

Let’s take a second to talk about where these glorious plants come from; without Mother Nature, there is no foraging. The importance of responsible and sustainable foraging is something everyone needs to take into consideration before haphazardly going out and pulling up plants. It means you should know how to forage ethically and consider nature conservation.

Foragers have a responsibility to not only keep themselves safe but to look after the environment. If people don't look after the natural world, it's not just the plants and animals that will suffer. Humanity will suffer as well. It's not just a moral and ethical duty to take care of the land we forage from, but we have practical reasons for doing so. With this in mind, how can you forage ethically?

Some of the following tips and principles are obvious, while others are less so.

Only harvest what you need.

Never pick all of a plant. Take up to ⅓ of the leaves of a plant; any more than that risks the plant's health. Please don’t take a plant in short supply; let it grow before Harvest.

Rotate your foraging areas. Not doing so may stress a habitat too much.

Leave an area looking at least as good as you found it, take any trash with you, and don't trample plants or other natural spaces. If you brought it in, you need to take it back out.

Replant dislodged roots and plant seeds in similar areas. Avoid introducing invasive species to a site free of them.

Use appropriate tools to avoid doing too much damage.

Cut leaves and stems with a sharp object instead of pulling them and risking uprooting the plant, for example. It's also easier for a plant to heal from a clean cut than a tear or twist.

Ethical foraging primarily comes down to common sense. You've probably done a good job if you haven't left too much evidence of your presence. If you focus on Harvest invasive species over rarer ones, you might even be helping out nature. As well as respecting nature while Harvest wild edibles, responsible foragers must also respect the law.

Believe it or not, you can't simply wander wherever you like and take whatever plants interest you. Foraging is a surprisingly controversial activity, depending on where you are. Each state in the United States has different foraging laws and regulations and can even differ from National Park to National Park. Foraging may not be permitted in specific locations. Other areas allow you to harvest exact amounts of a wild harvest. Some places may let you take nuts and berries but not take mushrooms or any roots.

The best way to find out the rules where you plan to forage is to ask. Check with local wildlife authorities and park authorities for information. Signposts are also your friends, but you can often find this information online before you visit an area. You don't want to discover that you're breaking the law by encountering an angry park ranger.

Another potential legal pitfall when foraging is whether the land you’re Harvest from is publicly or privately owned. Here’s a funny story; see if you can spot my mistake. I once enjoyed a hike in the Appalachians, the views were stunning, and it was a beautiful day. I assumed that it was a public area, but guess what? It wasn't. I ended up being chased away from the site by an angry gentleman and his equally angry dogs. It wasn't the most pleasant end to my hike, but I learned an important lesson. If there are barbed wire fences or other signs of an animal pasture, then it's probably a privately owned area. Private owners rarely appreciate trespassing and appreciate people taking plants from their property even less. When foraging on private land, you should ask the landowner for permission and explain what you're doing. Some people won't mind foragers, as long as you're respectful. The worst they can do is say no.

In short, if you doubt whether you can legally forage in an area, then check. Even if you're relatively sure, then check. It's the best way to stay on the right side of the law and to avoid awkward encounters or, worse, a fine.

PART TWO

STATES

ONE

CONNECTICUT

THE CONSTITUTION STATE

Welcome to Connecticut, one of New England’s original 13 colonies! It's often called the Constitution State. It's known for its beauty, history, and unique charm. It’s nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Berkshires and the sparkling shores of Long Island Sound; it beckons you with its irresistible blend of historical charm, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring natural splendor. Immerse yourself in the allure of quaint colonial towns brimming with antique shops and cozy cafes, or embark on an outdoor escapade to discover lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque coastal panoramas. With its rich history, thriving arts scene, and genuine warmth, Connecticut invites you to savor the very essence of New England in one delightful package.

Yearly Weather Patterns

Connecticut enjoys all four seasons. Each one brings a new color to the state.

Winter (December - February): The state gets pretty cold in the winter, with snowfall common. The average high temperature is 34°F (1°C), and the average low is 18°F (-8°C).

Spring (March-May): Spring starts to warm things up. The average high is around 60°F (15°C), and the average low is around 40°F (4°C). This is when the flowers start to bloom!

Summer (June - August): Summers in Connecticut are typically warm and humid. The average high is 83°F (28°C), and the average low is around 60°F (15°C). Perfect weather for a trip to the beach!

Fall(September - November): Autumn is absolutely beautiful, with the trees turning red, orange, and yellow. The average high is around 65°F (18°C), and the average low is around 44°F (6°C).

Land Topography

Connecticut is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from gentle hills and green valleys to majestic mountains and serene coastal plains. The Connecticut River, the longest river in New England, flows through the center of the state and plays a crucial role in supporting people’s and wildlife’s lives. The state is divided into two main regions: the Eastern Highland and the Western Highland. Both regions have rolling hills and mountains.

TheLitchfieldHills: situated in the northwest corner of the state, boast breathtaking landscapes adorned with delightful towns, shimmering lakes, and lush forests.

FarmingtonRiverValley:Nestled in the central part of the state, the FarmingtonRiverValley is known for its tranquil beauty, winding waterways, and fertile farmland.

EasternHighlands:The eastern region of Connecticut is characterized by its rugged terrain, including the EasternHighlands, where dense forests, rocky ridges, and pristine lakes abound.

LongIslandSound:AlongConnecticut's southern coast, you'll find the sparkling waters of LongIslandSound, a tidal estuary celebrated for its vibrant marine ecosystem and stunning scenery comprised of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and marshy wetlands.

I have traveled a good deal in Concord, and everywhere, in shops, offices, and fields, the inhabitants have appeared to me to be doing penance in a thousand remarkable ways.

-MARK TWAIN

Foraging Hotspots

The following list offers suggestions on possible foraging spots. Remember to check your local foraging laws before setting out. Here are some top spots:

MeshomasicStateForest:This is the oldest state forest in Connecticut. You can find various berries, nuts, and edible mushrooms here.

Devil'sHopyardStatePark:You can find edible plants like fiddlehead ferns and wild garlic here.

BigelowHollowStatePark: This park is great for foraging wild berries and mushrooms.

HammonassetBeachStatePark:Besides the beach, this park offers trails to forage for wild beach plums.

PaugussettStateForest:A good place for finding wild berries, edible plants, and nuts.

Local Foraging Groups

If you're interested in foraging, here are some local groups you can join:

TheConnecticutValleyMycologicalSociety: Another group for mushroom enthusiasts. http://www.cvmsfungi.org/

TheConnecticutBotanicalSociety: A society for those interested in plants, including wild edibles. http://www.ct-botanical-society.org/

The 3 Foragers: A group of people passionate about foraging and eating wild food. https://the3foragers.blogspot.com

ConnecticutForagingClub: A group of people passionate about foraging. They offer foraging outings throughout CT. FacebookGroup

Whether you're a resident or just visiting, there's always something to explore and discover in the Constitution State!

TWO

MAINE

THE PINE TREE STATE

Maine is known fondly as the Pine Tree State and was part of Massachusetts until it finally became its own state in 1820. The first people to live here were Native American tribes, like the Penobscot, who lived off the land for thousands of years. Its nickname comes from the tall, beautiful pine trees covering over 80% of its land. These trees are more than just beautiful—they're also important to Maine's history and economy. In the early 1600s, the first European settlers arrived, and Maine's forests have been a source of timber since. It’s also been a center for shipbuilding, and fishing, helping to shape the United States as we know it today.

Yearly Weather Patterns

Winter(December to February): Expect lots of snow! Maine winters can be very cold with temperatures often below freezing. Skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing are popular activities during this season.

Spring (March to May): The snow begins to melt, temperatures rise, and the state starts to bloom. This is a great time for hiking and bird-watching.

Summer (June to August): This is when Maine truly shines. With mild temperatures ranging from 70