Conduct research. Prior to embarking on a nature hike or camping trip, read a book or visit a website about edible plant life. Consult with a wilderness professional to gain insight into basic survival techniques and proper plant selection.
Observe for pests. When evaluating a specific plant, observe all portions of the plant for the presence of insects or worms prior to eating. The ingestion of either a whole plant or portions of a plant infested with pests renders even edible plants unfit for human consumption. Additionally, check for the presence of insect eggs or larvae to avoid accidental ingestion.
Avoid roadside plants. Plants positioned on the side of a paved road often contain high levels of harmful chemicals. Additionally, these plants often carry the residual material spread by the traffic of motor vehicles. Materials harbored by roadside pants include vehicle lubricants and the residual or tire wear.
Avoid mushrooms. Though many varieties of mushroom are edible, avoid the selection of mushrooms due to the similar characteristics between edible and poisonous mushrooms. Avoid the selection of any mold-producing plant or organism due to harmful effects. During plant selection, carry a bee sting kit, Bendaryl, or Calamine Lotion for the treatment of anaphylactic shock or allergic reaction.
Check for odors. During plant selection, smell for the presence of scents such as almonds. These scents often indicate the presence of chemicals considered harmful to humans. Also, smell the plant to determine whether decay or molding exists. Avoid plants found in the vicinity presence of an animal carcass or insect life attracted to animal decay.
