Olden Oasis

Foraging dandelion greens Now is the perfect time to forage for the perfect greens that commonly grow naturally in your own backyard. Yes, I am referring to dandelion greens. The dandelion plant is known as a common weed, but it is chalk full of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Dandelions are what some people call a lawn nuisance, but I like to think of them as free health food. These jagged, saw-toothed plants are edible from root to flower, and they are actually known as a superfood. If you don't have a lawn full of dandelions, they are also available as a tea, supplements, and in some grocery stores, fresh dandelions can be purchased in the produce aisle. Dandelion greens can be picked, rinsed, and cleaned, then eaten raw or cooked just like any other type of green that you may buy or grow in your home garden. So why would you want to eat dandelions? For one thing, dandelions are free food. They grow organically on the lawns of most residential homes, and for another...

Broadleaf plantain and its uses Broadleaf plantain is most commonly known as a weed that's just another type of lawn nuisance to many homeowners. However, this common weed is edible, it's packed full of calcium and vitamins A, C, and K, and it can be used medicinally for multiple purposes. Identifying broadleaf plantains The broadleaf plantain has broad, oval-shaped leaves. The plant is dark green and grows in a rosette shape. They grow long, small, spiked pods with dark seeds in the center of the plants. In the photo above, you can visually see what the plant looks like. This gem of a plant is not only edible, but it can also be used medicinally to treat chronic diarrhea and fatigue and boost immunity. Plus, it can also be used for treating wounds, burns, bug bites, etc. If you plan to eat broadleaf plantains fresh in salads and on sandwiches, look for young, tender plants to pick. Because they will be less chewy. By all means, you can still pick the larger leaves to cook in v...

Chickens' Favorite Snacks: Edible Weeds! Did you know that chickens love to munch on weeds? Not all weeds are safe for them to eat, but there are some that are not only safe but also beneficial for their health. Let's take a look at some edible weeds that chickens can safely eat and the benefits they provide. Benefits of Edible Weeds for Chickens Nutritional Value Edible weeds are packed with vitamins and minerals that can help keep your chickens healthy. They provide a variety of nutrients that are essential for their growth and overall well-being. Foraging Fun Allowing your chickens to forage for edible weeds can provide them with mental stimulation and entertainment. It gives them a chance to explore their surroundings and engage in natural behaviors. Plus, it's free entertainment for you to sit back and watch! Safe Edible Weeds for Chickens Dandelion Dandelions are a favorite snack for chickens. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. Chicken...

Foraging for cattail plants In my area I don't have to travel very far to find cattail plants. In fact, the plant grows very well alongside ponds, lakes, rivers, and even in road-side ditches. Today, I'm going to take you along with me while I show you how I uproot some cattail plants from a country roadside ditch. Plus, I will tell you a little bit about my experience and why I like foraging for these wild, perennial, aquatic plants that are often considered problematic for farmers. Foraging is a hobby of mine and I love being outside in nature. I enjoy the search like a child enjoying a colorful Easter egg hunt. Foraging can be such a treat, especially if you know what you're looking for.  Cattails happen to be really easy to identify. They reach three to four feet in height and sometimes even taller than that. In early spring, they emerge in semi-aquatic areas such as around the edges of ponds, rivers, lakes, and ditches.  Cattail leaves are rather long, spike-like curve...