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When we think about gardens that supply food for the family, we most often think of vegetables. But what about flowers?
Flowers, of course, are not commonly considered “edible,” but they actually can make delightful dishes and are packed full of nutrients and vitamins that the body needs. There are many annual flowers that have been used for various health ailments.
If you are growing edible, annual flowers, you can spread them all around your property and create different flower beds. Make sure if you plan to eat these varieties that you do not plant anywhere a pet could mess with them. Fertilize your plants as necessary. Rabbit manure makes an excellent fertilizer for flowers. If your flowers look a little worse for the wear, consider making a rabbit manure tea. This works like a pick-me-up for the flower and can help in production of the flower.
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Here are some of the flowers that you can grow each year and add to your meals:
- Garland chrysanthemum
- Marigold
- Petunia
- Garden salvia
- Calendula
- Nasturtium
- Pineapple sage
- Radish (Yes this is a vegetable, but the flowers of the sage can be eaten as well. They give off a spicy type of flavor.)
- Geranium
- Squash flowers (The squash flower tastes much like a raw squash.)
- Snapdragon
- Sunflower
Safety When Eating Annual Flowers
Warning: There are annual flowers out there that are poisonous if eaten. These can make you very sick and even can lead to death. To avoid this, make sure that every plant on your property is clearly identified. Put markers where you plant your flowers to ensure that you know what it is. As always, research before you eat flowers if you have questions.
Tips on Growing Annuals
Harvesting your flowers can take place whenever you want to put them in your dishes. Take extra caution when harvesting. Often, people will just go out and pull a flower head off, not realizing what damage they have caused the plant. Taking your time will ensure that you have proper plant growth and that the plant will continue to provide flowers throughout the season.
If you are in the process of designing your garden this year, consider adding some flower annuals. Not only will it give you a great-looking dish, but it will also provide you with extra nutrients and vitamins that your body needs.
By planting these flowers, you also are helping your local ecosystem by encouraging pollinators such as bees and butterflies to pollinate and live in the area.
Have you ever eaten edible flowers? What tips would you add? Share them in the section below:
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