Harrison library offers class on how to spot edible backyard plants

Dreary winter weather has some people dreaming of springtime gardens, it appears.

Nearly 50 people have registered for a program Tuesday at the Harrison library called Spring Wild Edible Plants – and there’s room for more, Adult Program Specialist John Kristine said.

“We thought it would be a program our patrons would enjoy watching in the middle of winter as they anticipate the arrival of spring,” he said. “I’m so happy many people are interested in attending.”

No green thumb is required. The class will teach the ins and outs of common, backyard wild edible plants.

From dandelions to garlic mustard, the instructor will talk about how to create tasty meals and recipes from plants and flowers growing in the backyard or patio container.

The class will be offered online and in person from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Community Library of Allegheny Valley. The library is at 1522 Broadview Blvd.

The program is offered free through Allegheny Land Trust (ALT), a nonprofit founded in 1993 to help people save local green space.

Whether it’s milkweed or clover or wild onions, backyards can be a buffet for gardeners and those who know how to spot edible greenery.

Attendees can expect to learn how to identify common wild edibles that grow in southwestern Pennsylvania, according to Lindsay Dill, ALT spokesperson.

“Our environmental educator will also suggest some recipes for these common edibles to get foragers started on harvesting their own backyard,” Dill said. “It can be done deliciously, safely and sustainably.”

ALT’s environmental education team offers programs for all ages, with many being in classrooms and community spaces to foster ongoing generations of land stewards, Dill said.

The land trust protects more than 3,400 acres in all, and every resident of Allegheny County lives within 10 miles of an ALT conservation area, she said.

To register, visit alleghenyvalleylibrary.org.