Participate in “No Mow May”
This helps pollination and increase the number of pollinators! It encourages a vibrant ecosystem helping bees thrive and let insects and creatures who have nested in the grasses, under leaves and natural debris emerge safely.
Other ways you can continue to support is to mow less frequently throughout the year, not using any pesticides, planting flowers, encouraging natural plant growth.
What can we do with the little gems that emerge?
Another great thing about letting your yard grow is learning about the plants that emerge when they grow. It’s common to call these little beauties “weeds” which have a bad rep, but there are so much more than that!
Dandelion / Violet Jelly
- 3 ¼ cups water, or more as needed
- 4 cups lightly packed dandelion , divided or 8 cups lightly packed violet petals
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 (1.75 ounce) package powdered fruit pectin
- 4 ½ cups white sugar
- Rinse and drain blossoms; place in a large heat-resistant glass bowl. Pour boiling water over the blossoms and let stand for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain and reserve flower liquid, pressing with a spatula to extract all possible color. Discard/compost blossoms.
- Measure flower liquid; add enough water to measure 3-1/2 cups. Stir in pectin, lemon juice and sugar.
- Pour into a large stainless steel saucepan; bring to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Boil 1 minute.
- Remove from the heat; skim off foam. Carefully ladle hot liquid into hot sterilized half-pint jars, leaving 1/4-in. headspace. Remove air bubbles; wipe rims and adjust lids. Process for 5 minutes in a boiling-water canner.
Dandelion Leaf Salad
- Gather the first early set of dandelion leaves in a bowl
(Hint: The spring leaves or first set of dandelion leaves shortly after they emerge taste best!) - Mix with your favorite veggies; red onion, tomatoes, peppers, spinach, etc.
- Season with a light vinaigrette dressing
- Enjoy!
Wild Strawberries
Gather wild strawberries! They are impossibly sweet and delicious!
Get to know the plants in your yard! Head outside and see that you can find! Visit your local library to learn more.
Helpful hints! Never consume foraged items you are not sure about, always research before you eat. When you are foraging, never take 100% always leave enough for the plants to continue to grow.
Tell us about your WILD adventure by visiting us on Facebook or Instagram @snak.bakery