Teaching your kids to forage can benefit them later in life. They’ll understand what’s safe and what isn’t and have some extra food to eat or cook with.
Wild fruits are tasty and grow everywhere, but consuming the wrong thing can harm your health. These are the most common wild fruits that you can eat.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a common fruit in North America found in mountainous areas. They prefer to grow in acidic soil, so you can usually find them in areas with dry pine needles. Wild blueberries are smaller than those grown on industrial farms, and the shade can vary between shades of blue.
You can find blueberries growing between spring and late summer. The flowers should be recognizable due to their distinct teardrop shape. To collect blueberries, hold your bucket under the bush and use your other hand to brush the berries into the pail gently.
Raspberries
Another common fruit that kids should learn to forage is raspberries. Both blackberries and raspberries are easy to identify by their characteristics. They grow in small clusters that can be easily picked and used for toppings, baking, or eating.
Raspberries can be found all over the place. You can go picking on many trails, pastures, and woodland areas abundant with the fruit. When picking, look for slightly squishy berries that slip easily off the branch. Avoid berries that are too mushy since it’s a sign they’re overripe.
Wild Strawberries
While you can easily buy strawberries at the store, nothing beats the taste of those found in the wild. Your kids will benefit from the increased levels of vitamins and antioxidants. The juice from wild strawberries makes an excellent tonic, offering anti-inflammatory effects that ease the stomach.
You can find wild strawberries in a wide variety of habitats. Forests, swamps, and rocky areas are the best places to look. Try searching in alpine areas with high elevation since they prefer dry, rich soil with plenty of nutrients.
Crabapples
If you want to teach your kids to forage for something healthy, there’s nothing better than crabapples. These fruits are great for the heart, stomach, and immune system. They’re tart and acidic, making them perfect for jams and jellies.
Crabapples aren’t hard to locate. You can find them growing in parks, fields, and woodlands. Understanding what to know before eating crabapples will allow you and your children to consume them safely so you can get the most out of their health benefits.
Wild Fruits Grow Nearly Everywhere
Teaching your kids to forage is a great way to ensure they’re self-sufficient and can stay safe in the wild. However, wild fruits and vegetables have specific qualities that you should be on the lookout for.
Knowing the most common wild fruits that you can eat will allow you to pass on the knowledge to your children and help future generations attain valuable survival skills.
