Foraging for your food instead of purchasing it at the grocery store can be a frugal and healthy way to feed your family. It can help you save money, get exercise and bond with your loved ones as you forage together.

Things you find the forest can enhance your usual grocery store purchases, such as adding mushrooms to your pasta sauce or adding a side of asparagus to a chicken dinner.

If you think you cannot forage because you do not live in the country, do not be discouraged. There is a growing urban foraging movement and you would be surprised at how many opportunities there are. From overgrown fruit trees to discarded herb plants, there are many ways to add fresh fruits, vegetables and spices to your diet.

Beginner Foraging

If you are just starting to entertain the idea of foraging, it can be overwhelming and a little scary. You likely worry about picking the wrong kind of mushroom and getting sick. For beginners, there are ways to ease into foraging without needing to worry about poisoning yourself.

One of the easiest foraging opportunities is dandelions. They are plentiful throughout the spring and summer and the leaves are delicious in salads.

Apple trees and citrus trees are surprisingly common and the fruit often goes unpicked and spoils. Look for trees and orchards in your area, particularly those in public parks or pedestrian areas. They are ripe for picking and you can fill up baskets with the fruit, at no cost to you. It's a frugal and fun way to get some fresh produce.

Below is a month-by-month guide of foods to look for during the year.