Ancestral Skills for a Sustainable Modern Life
Fruit Stuffed Fire-Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
Pumpkins and squash have been used for centuries by indigenous peoples throughout the Americas, long before European settlers arrived. Native American tribes, particularly those in what is now the northeastern United States, relied heavily on the “Three Sisters” — corn, beans, and squash — as staple crops. Squash and pumpkins were highly valued for their long shelf life and their ability to provide sustenance during the colder months. They would often roast pumpkins or squash whole in the coals of a fire, a practice that likely inspired modern versions of stuffed pumpkin dishes. While there is no specific “stuffed pumpkin recipe” documented from that era, the combination of roasting squash and mixing it with other seasonal ingredients like nuts, seeds, berries, or dried fruits would have been a natural extension of their culinary traditions.
Learn About Our 24-Hour Survival Challenge
Take on the 24-Hour Survival Challenge:
Build Skills, Confidence, & Camaraderie
Imagine this: A storm has knocked out power across the area for days, leaving you without access to heating, cooking, or clean water. Or perhaps you’ve wandered a little too far off the beaten path while hiking, only to realize you’re lost as the sun begins to set. These scenarios are daunting, yet they’re not so far-fetched. In fact, they highlight just how crucial basic survival skills can be in our modern world.
The good news is that these skills aren’t just for hardcore adventurers or doomsday preppers. They’re for all of us—ordinary people who want to be prepared for anything life throws our way. And what better way to learn and practice these skills than by taking part in our 24-Hour Survival Challenge, a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and experience nature in a whole new way.
Illuminating the Past: Viking Oil Lamps
Imagine a Viking longhouse nestled amidst the rugged Scandinavian landscape. Inside, the warmth of a flickering flame casts dancing shadows on wooden beams, illuminating faces gathered around to share stories of gods, heroes, and distant lands. This scene, timeless and evocative, is brought to life through the humble oil lamps unearthed at archaeological sites like Birka and Hedeby. These artifacts not only shed light on the physical spaces of the Norse people but also illuminate the intricate tapestry of their daily lives.
How to Make Beef Jerky at Home
Beef jerky is more than just a modern snack you grab at a convenience store. It’s an ancient method of preserving meat, one that has provided long-lasting sustenance for travelers, soldiers, and hunters throughout history. From indigenous peoples in the Americas to Mongol horsemen on the steppes of Central Asia, dried meat has been a vital survival food for centuries. Today, while the stakes might be lower, learning how to make beef jerky at home gives you both a delicious snack and a connection to the past.
Apples in History: From Myth to American Cider
Few fruits have captured the imagination and played as significant a role in history as the apple. This seemingly humble fruit has been central to myths, legends, and traditions across many cultures for thousands of years. From its ancient origins in Central Asia to its establishment as a staple crop in colonial America, the apple has left an indelible mark on human civilization. The apple’s journey through history mirrors the journey of humanity itself—rooted in survival, exploration, and the pursuit of prosperity.
Sulfur Fatwood Matches: A Reliable Fire-Starting Tool
For centuries, fire has been humanity’s most important tool—whether for warmth, cooking, or protection. Long before the modern matchbook, resourceful individuals relied on methods that could ignite a fire quickly and in less-than-ideal conditions. One such method involved sulfur fatwood matches—a combination of resin-rich wood and sulfur that was used to start fires in damp conditions, long before reliable matches and lighters were invented. These homemade matches are still incredibly useful today for survivalists, bushcrafters, and anyone who enjoys being prepared for the unpredictable whims of nature.
Phragmites on Long Island: Foraging, Crafting, and Cooking
Have you ever walked along the wetlands of Long Island and noticed tall, swaying reeds that seem to stretch endlessly into the sky? Those striking plants are known as phragmites, and they have a fascinating story to tell. Often considered a nuisance due to their invasive nature, phragmites have been a part of human history for thousands of years—serving as food, building materials, tools, and even medicine.
At Forgotten Skillz, we believe in reconnecting with nature and exploring ancient knowledge to find practical uses in today’s world. While phragmites might seem like an overgrown weed to most, it’s actually an untapped resource full of potential. In this post, we’ll dive into the history, environmental impact, and most importantly, the practical uses of this abundant plant—everything from edible shoots and tubers to crafting baskets and reed boats.
Ready to learn how this common plant can become a staple in your foraging adventures? Let’s explore the world of phragmites and rediscover its many uses!
What is Phragmites?
Phragmites, also known as the common reed, is a tall, perennial grass that thrives in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of rivers and lakes. It can grow up to 15 feet tall, with long, hollow stalks and feathery plumes at the top. You’ll often see phragmites forming dense clusters, creating an almost impenetrable wall of greenery that sways in the breeze. While it might seem like just another reed, this plant has a lot more to offer than meets the eye.
Identification Guide
Recognizing phragmites is relatively easy once you know what to look for:
- Height: One of the tallest grasses you’ll encounter in marshy areas, growing between 6 and 15 feet tall.
- Stalks: Tall, woody, and hollow, the stalks are typically a greenish-yellow during the growing season, turning to a golden-brown in the winter.
- Leaves: Flat and sword-shaped, the leaves can grow up to 20 inches long and about an inch wide. They’re arranged alternately along the stalks.
- Seed Heads: The large, plume-like seed heads appear in late summer and fall. They start out greenish-purple and mature into a beige or tan color, spreading easily in the wind.
- Rhizomes: Beneath the surface, phragmites have an extensive network of rhizomes (underground stems) that help them spread quickly and aggressively. These rhizomes also store nutrients, making them an important part of the plant’s foraging potential.
The History of Phragmites
The story of phragmites is a tale of two varieties: the native species that has coexisted with local ecosystems for thousands of years and the invasive species that has spread across North America like wildfire, reshaping wetlands and marshes in its path. To fully understand the significance of this plant, we need to look at both its long history on the continent and its more recent arrival as an invasive force.
Native vs. Invasive Varieties
There are two main varieties of phragmites found on Long Island: the native Phragmites australis subsp. americanus and the invasive Phragmites australis subsp. australis.
Native Phragmites (Phragmites australis subsp. americanus) has been a natural part of North American wetlands for thousands of years. It plays a role in supporting the ecosystem, growing in smaller, less aggressive patches, and coexisting with other plant species. Native Americans and early settlers utilized native phragmites for its many useful properties, from crafting tools and building materials to using its shoots and roots as food sources.
Invasive Phragmites (Phragmites australis subsp. australis) arrived in North America from Europe in the 19th century, likely through ballast water from ships or as packing material. This European variety quickly outcompeted the native species, spreading at an alarming rate due to its aggressive root system and adaptability to a variety of environmental conditions. It now dominates wetlands across the country, forming dense monocultures that outcompete native vegetation, reduce biodiversity, and alter wetland hydrology.
The Invasion of Phragmites in the U.S.
The introduction of the invasive variety of phragmites to North America represents a significant shift in the balance of wetland ecosystems. Once introduced in the early 1800s, Phragmites australis subsp. australis rapidly took hold in coastal areas like Long Island. Its invasive nature stems from its ability to reproduce through both seeds and rhizomes, allowing it to spread quickly and form dense, impenetrable stands that crowd out other native plants. These invasive patches can alter water flow, decrease the habitat available to wildlife, and increase the risk of fire due to their dry, dense stems.
Despite its invasive status, many foragers and artisans see value in using the plant. While conservation efforts focus on controlling its spread, the practical uses of phragmites provide an opportunity for sustainable harvesting, giving new life to a plant that is otherwise seen as a threat.
Environmental Impact of Phragmites
Phragmites is a double-edged sword when it comes to the environment. On one hand, this tall, reed-like plant has the ability to stabilize shorelines, filter pollutants, and provide habitat for various species. On the other hand, the invasive variety of phragmites has become a significant environmental concern across Long Island and beyond, outcompeting native species and drastically altering ecosystems. Let’s explore both the positive and negative environmental impacts of phragmites.
Positive Environmental Functions of Phragmites
Though often maligned for its invasive tendencies, phragmites plays a valuable role in certain environments, particularly when managed properly.
Erosion Control: Phragmites’ extensive root system helps stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion. Its rhizomes grow deep and wide, binding the soil together and providing a barrier against wind and wave action. This is especially beneficial in coastal regions like Long Island, where storm surges and rising sea levels can lead to shoreline degradation.
Water Filtration: Wetlands dominated by phragmites can act as natural filters for pollutants. The plant absorbs nutrients and contaminants from the water, reducing the levels of harmful substances like nitrogen and phosphorus. This makes phragmites a natural water purifier, especially in areas where agricultural runoff or urban pollution threatens water quality.
Wildlife Habitat: Although dense phragmites stands can limit biodiversity, they do provide habitat for certain species. Birds, insects, and small mammals may use the tall reeds for shelter, nesting, and protection from predators. Some species have even adapted to the invasive phragmites, using it as a food source or breeding ground.
Negative Environmental Impact of Invasive Phragmites
Unfortunately, the benefits of phragmites are often outweighed by the damage caused by the invasive variety. Phragmites australis subsp. australis is notorious for disrupting local ecosystems, particularly in delicate wetland environments.
Loss of Biodiversity: The invasive phragmites forms dense monocultures, effectively choking out native plant species. These thick stands of reeds reduce the variety of flora that can grow in wetlands, which in turn affects the fauna that rely on those plants for food and shelter. The reduction in plant diversity can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, from insects to birds to fish.
Altered Wetland Hydrology: Invasive phragmites can change the natural flow of water in wetlands, disrupting the hydrology of these ecosystems. Its dense root systems can create barriers that prevent water from flowing freely, leading to changes in water levels, soil composition, and nutrient cycling. These changes make it harder for native plants and animals to thrive, further exacerbating the imbalance in the ecosystem.
Fire Hazard: During the fall and winter months, phragmites’ tall, dry stalks become highly flammable. Large stands of the plant can create a fire hazard, particularly in coastal regions where dry conditions and strong winds are common. Wildfires fueled by phragmites can be more intense and difficult to control, posing risks to both wildlife and human settlements.
Impact on Wetland Restoration Efforts: The presence of invasive phragmites complicates efforts to restore wetlands. Its ability to rapidly regrow from rhizomes means that even after removal, phragmites can quickly re-establish itself if not carefully managed. This makes it challenging for conservationists to reintroduce native plants and restore wetland ecosystems to their original state.
Managing the Impact of Phragmites
Efforts to control the spread of invasive phragmites are ongoing, with a combination of methods such as cutting, burning, herbicide application, and replanting native species. However, it’s a difficult battle—especially considering how quickly phragmites can take over an area.
From an ecological perspective, striking a balance is key. While the invasive variety of phragmites has undoubtedly caused damage to wetlands, the plant’s natural abilities—such as erosion control and water filtration—remain valuable. Foragers, conservationists, and crafters alike can find ways to use phragmites sustainably, turning a problem into a resource.
Historical Significance to Native Americans & Early Settlers
Long before the invasive variety of phragmites took over wetlands across the U.S., this plant was an invaluable resource to many Indigenous cultures and early settlers. Its towering stalks, fibrous leaves, and edible parts made it a staple in everyday life. From building materials to medicine, phragmites was prized for its versatility and abundance. Let’s explore some of the key historical uses of phragmites:
Crafting and Building Materials
Phragmites has long been used in crafting, especially in cultures that relied on natural materials for their homes and tools.
- Basket Weaving: The tall, flexible stalks and leaves of phragmites were woven into sturdy baskets, mats, and other containers used for storage, gathering food, and transporting goods. The practice of weaving phragmites is still alive in some traditional communities today, though modern materials have largely replaced it in mainstream culture.
- Thatching and Shelter Construction: Native Americans and early settlers used phragmites as a building material. Its long stalks were used to thatch roofs for homes or as walls in temporary shelters. Phragmites’ water-resistant qualities made it an ideal material for covering dwellings and keeping out rain.
- Cordage and Rope: The fibrous nature of the leaves and stalks allowed phragmites to be twisted into strong cordage. This cord was used to bind tools, tie together structures, and even make fishing nets.
Maritime & Reed Boat Construction
One of the most fascinating historical uses of phragmites is in the construction of reed boats. In ancient civilizations around the world, including those in the Middle East, Africa, and South America, reeds like phragmites were bundled together to create buoyant vessels capable of navigating rivers and lakes. Though this technique was less common in North America, it serves as a powerful reminder of the plant’s versatility and potential in construction.
Food & Medicinal Uses
Phragmites wasn’t just useful for its physical properties—it was also an important food source and medicinal plant.
- Edible Parts: Native Americans harvested young shoots, tubers, and seeds from phragmites. The shoots were eaten fresh, providing a crunchy, mild-flavored vegetable similar to asparagus, while the tubers were roasted or boiled for a starchy meal. The seeds, once collected and dried, could be ground into flour for bread-making.
- Medicinal Applications: The resin found in phragmites stems was used for medicinal purposes. It could be applied topically to soothe wounds or chewed as a natural gum for mouth irritations. Some Native American tribes also used phragmites to treat digestive issues, leveraging its natural fibers to aid in digestion.
Phragmites in Ceremony & Ritual
In some Indigenous cultures, phragmites also held ceremonial significance. Its long, straight stalks were used in rituals, often burned as incense or woven into sacred objects. While these traditions varied between tribes, phragmites was a key part of spiritual practices in many regions where it grew.
Modern Uses Inspired by Ancient Knowledge
While phragmites might be seen today as an invasive plant that needs to be controlled, there’s a growing movement to re-examine its usefulness through the lens of ancient knowledge. Many traditional uses of phragmites have been revived and adapted for modern purposes, blending historical wisdom with contemporary practices in foraging, crafting, and sustainability. Let’s explore how ancient uses of phragmites are inspiring people today.
Basket Weaving & Crafting
The art of basket weaving from phragmites stalks is experiencing a revival among foragers and craftspeople. Drawing on traditional techniques, people are using the flexible, durable stalks to create a variety of items:
- Baskets and containers: Weaving baskets from phragmites not only connects us with ancient craftsmanship but also provides a sustainable alternative to plastic and synthetic materials. These handmade containers are both functional and beautiful, serving as storage or decor.
- Artistic creations: Modern artists and crafters have expanded the use of phragmites beyond its traditional forms. Some are incorporating it into sculptures, wall hangings, and other pieces of natural art, inspired by its elegant, flowing form.
Cordage and Rope Making
The fibrous leaves and stalks of phragmites are still highly valued for making cordage. This ancient practice, used for millennia by Indigenous cultures to bind tools and construct shelters, has been embraced by modern survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts. Phragmites cordage is strong, flexible, and easy to produce with just a few simple tools. Today, it’s used for:
- Survival situations: Learning to make cordage from natural materials like phragmites is a key skill in wilderness survival. It can be used to create shelter, secure gear, and even make fishing lines or traps in emergency situations.
- Bushcraft and outdoor skills: Many bushcraft enthusiasts include phragmites cordage as part of their toolkit for outdoor living, whether they’re practicing primitive skills or simply connecting with nature.
Sustainable Building Materials
In recent years, there’s been a renewed interest in using natural materials for eco-friendly construction, and phragmites is playing a role in this movement. While traditional reed thatching has largely fallen out of practice, phragmites is being reintroduced as a green building material:
- Reed panels: Phragmites stalks are used to create reed panels for walls and roofing in sustainable buildings. These panels are lightweight, insulating, and highly renewable, making them a great option for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Natural insulation: Because of its hollow stalks, phragmites can be processed into insulation material for homes. This is a modern twist on the ancient practice of using the plant for shelter and warmth.
Reed Boat Building
Though the practice of building reed boats isn’t common in modern North America, some adventurous foragers and makers are exploring this ancient technique. Inspired by the reed boats constructed in ancient cultures along rivers like the Nile, enthusiasts are experimenting with building small watercraft from phragmites:
- Floating rafts: Some modern survivalists and historical reenactors have taken up the challenge of building floating rafts using phragmites, binding the reeds together with natural cordage. While mostly a fun experiment, it’s a testament to the durability and versatility of this plant.
- Historical demonstrations: In some cultural and educational settings, reed boat building is being reintroduced as a way to demonstrate ancient maritime techniques, offering a hands-on way to learn about history.
Reviving Phragmites as Food
Ancient foraging practices around phragmites are seeing a comeback as people look for sustainable, local food sources. Foragers are rediscovering the edible parts of the plant, including the shoots, tubers, seeds, and resin. This has inspired modern uses in both wild cuisine and home cooking:
- Foraged meals: Chefs and food enthusiasts have begun experimenting with phragmites in the kitchen, incorporating its young shoots into stir-fries, salads, and soups. The tubers are roasted or boiled, similar to potatoes, while the seeds can be ground into flour for baking.
- Sustainable food sources: Foraging phragmites offers a free, local food source that can be sustainably harvested with minimal impact on the environment—especially in areas where invasive varieties are abundant. It’s a great way to incorporate wild foods into modern diets.
Art and Cultural Projects
Phragmites is also finding a place in modern art and cultural restoration projects. Inspired by its historical uses, artists and cultural preservationists are using the plant to create pieces that honor both nature and tradition. Projects range from large-scale environmental sculptures made from phragmites to cultural workshops that teach traditional uses of the plant in Indigenous communities.
Edibility of Phragmites
When it comes to foraging, phragmites offers a surprisingly rich variety of edible parts that can be used in creative ways in the kitchen. While it may be known more for its role in crafting and habitat construction, several parts of this versatile plant—from its young shoots to its seeds and even its resin—are not only edible but also nutritious. Let’s take a deeper look at what phragmites has to offer for foragers and food adventurers alike.
Harvesting Phragmites: Timing is Key
To get the most out of phragmites, it’s essential to know when and how to harvest each part of the plant. Phragmites is a perennial grass, and different parts of it are best harvested at specific times of the year. For example, the young shoots are at their peak in early spring, when they are still tender and can be eaten raw or cooked. As the plant matures, these shoots become fibrous and less palatable, so it’s best to gather them when they are 6 to 12 inches tall.
The tubers, which grow underground, can be dug up and harvested throughout the year. However, late fall to early winter is considered the ideal time, as the plant begins to store nutrients in its rhizomes (root system) in preparation for the colder months. This is when the tubers are at their most nutrient-dense.
The seeds, meanwhile, can be collected in late summer to early fall. These soft, plume-like seed heads are best gathered before they fully dry out, allowing you to harvest them while they are still viable. Finally, the resin, which can be found on the stems of phragmites, is typically ready for collection in late summer or fall when it becomes sticky and ready to use.
Edible Parts & Their Uses
Each part of phragmites has a unique flavor and culinary potential. While the plant may not be commonly associated with gourmet cuisine, it can certainly be integrated into a variety of meals—especially for those interested in wild, foraged foods.
Young Shoots
The young shoots of phragmites are perhaps the most accessible and versatile part of the plant when it comes to eating. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture, which makes them an excellent addition to a range of dishes. You can enjoy them raw, sliced into salads, or lightly sautéed in a stir-fry. The shoots are reminiscent of asparagus or bamboo shoots in both taste and texture, making them a great wild alternative to those more common vegetables. For a more adventurous take, you might consider pickling the shoots, which will preserve their crunch while adding a tangy, flavorful dimension to your meal.
Tubers
Beneath the surface, phragmites has an extensive system of rhizomes, which store energy for the plant. These tuber-like roots are starchy and similar to potatoes or water chestnuts in texture. They can be roasted, boiled, or sautéed, offering a filling, earthy addition to soups, stews, or even mashed as a wild alternative to mashed potatoes. Foragers often find that the tubers have a mild, slightly nutty flavor, which pairs well with savory herbs and spices. You can experiment with these tubers in any dish that calls for a starchy vegetable, allowing phragmites to take a central role in wild foraged cuisine.
Seeds
Though not immediately thought of as a typical grain, the seeds of phragmites can be collected, dried, and ground into flour. This phragmites seed flour can then be used in baking, offering a rustic, nutty flavor to breads, flatbreads, and crackers. Since the seeds themselves are relatively small, they are often mixed with other flours to provide structure and balance in baked goods. However, whole seeds can also be sprinkled on top of dishes like salads, granola, or even incorporated into homemade energy bars, adding a nutritional boost to your meals.
Resin
Phragmites also produces a resin that seeps from its stems, which can be collected and used in a variety of ways. This resin has a sticky, chewy texture and can be eaten as a natural chewing gum. Some traditional uses of phragmites resin include using it as a base for homemade gum or thickening sauces and stews. Its slightly sweet flavor makes it a fun addition to wild-crafted snacks, and its unique texture adds an element of foraged surprise to your culinary experiments.
Safety & Sustainability in Foraging
While phragmites offers several edible parts, it’s important to forage responsibly. The plant often grows in wetlands and along waterways, which means it may absorb pollutants from its surroundings, including heavy metals or industrial runoff. Always harvest from clean, uncontaminated areas far from highways, factories, or other sources of pollution.
Additionally, while the invasive variety of phragmites may seem abundant, ethical foraging practices are crucial. Harvest only what you need and make sure to leave plenty of plant material behind to support wildlife habitats and natural ecosystems. This ensures a balance between benefiting from this resource and preserving the environment in which it thrives.
From crunchy spring shoots to nutrient-packed tubers, seeds, and resin, phragmites is a surprisingly diverse plant when it comes to foraging. With a little knowledge and creativity, you can incorporate this wild edible into your meals, celebrating both its ancient uses and its modern culinary potential. Whether you’re out foraging on Long Island or experimenting in your kitchen, phragmites is a plant that’s waiting to be rediscovered.
Recipe Ideas Using Phragmites
Now that you’ve learned how to identify and harvest different parts of phragmites, it’s time to bring them into the kitchen! Whether you’re cooking up a wild stir-fry or experimenting with homemade chewing gum, phragmites offers some unique culinary possibilities. Below are some easy and creative recipes using shoots, seeds, tubers, and even resin, giving you the chance to enjoy this wild, foraged plant in a whole new way.
Phragmites Shoot Stir-Fry
The young shoots of phragmites have a crisp texture and mild flavor, making them perfect for a quick stir-fry. This recipe highlights their natural sweetness, balanced with the savory goodness of garlic and soy sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of young phragmites shoots (6-12 inches tall), cleaned and sliced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the sesame oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add the phragmites shoots to the pan and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Pour in the soy sauce and red pepper flakes (if using), and stir to coat the shoots.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, until the shoots have absorbed the flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot as a side dish or over rice for a complete meal.
Seed Pod Porridge
Phragmites seeds can be collected and turned into a nutritious porridge, much like grains such as oatmeal or millet. This hearty dish is perfect for breakfast or as a warm, filling meal on a cool day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dried phragmites seeds, ground into a coarse flour
- 2 ½ cups water or milk (or a mix of both)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, or dried berries
Instructions:
- In a medium pot, combine the phragmites seed flour, water or milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If you prefer a creamier consistency, you can add more liquid as needed during cooking.
- Once the porridge has thickened and the seeds have softened, remove from heat and stir in honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Serve hot, topped with your favorite fruits, nuts, or dried berries for added texture and flavor.
Tubers & Wild Green Soup
Phragmites tubers are starchy and satisfying, similar to potatoes. This soup combines the earthy flavor of the tubers with wild greens for a nourishing, foraged meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups phragmites tubers, cleaned, peeled, and chopped
- 2 cups wild greens (such as dandelion greens, nettles, or purslane), washed and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the chopped phragmites tubers to the pot and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tubers to lightly brown.
- Pour in the broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the tubers are tender.
- Stir in the wild greens and cook for another 5 minutes, just until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Homemade Phragmites Resin Chewing Gum
Phragmites resin has a natural, chewy texture that makes it perfect for homemade chewing gum. This simple recipe lets you create a fun, all-natural gum with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon phragmites resin, cleaned of debris
- 1 teaspoon beeswax (optional, for a firmer chew)
- A few drops of peppermint or other flavoring extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Collect and clean the phragmites resin by gently scraping it off the stems. Remove any dirt or plant material by rolling the resin in your hands or using a fine mesh strainer.
- In a double boiler or heatproof bowl, melt the resin over low heat. If you want a firmer chew, add the beeswax and stir until fully melted.
- Remove from heat and, if using, add a few drops of your desired flavoring extract. Stir to combine.
- Once the mixture has cooled slightly, begin kneading it in your hands until it becomes pliable and smooth. Be careful not to burn your hands, as the resin will still be warm.
- Shape the resin into small pieces or balls, then allow it to cool completely on a parchment-lined surface.
- Store the gum in an airtight container. Chew as needed and enjoy the natural, wild flavors of your homemade gum!
These recipes offer an adventurous way to explore the many edible possibilities of phragmites, turning this wild plant into a creative part of your next meal or snack. Whether you’re stir-frying shoots, simmering tubers into soup, or crafting your own chewing gum, phragmites provides a unique connection to nature’s bounty. Happy foraging and cooking!
Rediscovering the Hidden Value of Phragmites
Phragmites may be known as an invasive species, but it holds a wealth of untapped potential for foragers, crafters, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature’s resources. From edible shoots, tubers, and seeds to the practical use of its stalks for crafting and building, this plant has served humanity for centuries. Whether you’re weaving baskets, stirring up a wild green soup, or experimenting with homemade gum, phragmites is a prime example of how ancient knowledge can inspire modern-day sustainability.
As you walk through the wetlands of Long Island, take a moment to appreciate the towering reeds that surround you. Instead of viewing them as a nuisance, consider them an opportunity. By harvesting and using phragmites responsibly, you’re not only helping to manage its invasive spread but also rediscovering a rich, historical connection to the land.
Phragmites offers an invitation to explore, forage, and experiment—transforming this “invasive weed” into a tool for creativity, nourishment, and self-reliance. So grab your foraging basket, your crafting tools, or your kitchen utensils, and let phragmites become part of your next adventure!
Author: Michael A. Evans
.Michael A Evans is a passionate advocate for preserving and reviving ancestral knowledge through modern applications. As the founder of Forgotten Skillz, he is dedicated to teaching the skills of self-sufficiency, bushcraft, and sustainable living, drawing inspiration from historical practices to empower individuals in today’s world. Michael’s work extends beyond survival skills; he also leads Vision Martial Arts in Patchogue, NY, where he guides both adults and children in realizing their potential through martial arts. Additionally, Michael contributes to the educational field as a collaborator on the “Little Laurie Science Stories” book series and the Ninja Née Science Education Program. With a background in therapeutic massage from the NY College of Health Professions, Michael continues to provide holistic care as the lead therapist at Massage LI.
The Spotted Lanternfly: Long Island’s New Invasive Threat
The Spotted Lanternfly:
Long Island’s New Invasive Threat & How We Can Help Stop It
The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has officially made its way to Long Island, and it’s causing quite a stir. Originally from Asia, this invasive species has spread rapidly across parts of the United States in recent years, and its presence is now threatening the delicate balance of our local ecosystems and agriculture here on Long Island. From vineyards to ornamental plants, the Spotted Lanternfly has no shortage of potential hosts, and its impact could be severe if left unchecked.
Coyotes on Long Island – Living With Our New Neighbors
Coyotes, which were historically confined to the western United States, have expanded their territory and are now a notable presence on Long Island, New York. As these adaptable predators continue to extend their range, their arrival presents both challenges and opportunities for understanding how we, as humans, can peacefully coexist with this new, yet ancient, neighbor.
The Magic Mile: Strategy for a Successful Hunt
Discovering the Secrets of the Trail
When hunting, success often comes down to knowledge—knowledge of the land, the game, and the subtle changes that signal opportunity or danger. One powerful technique that seasoned hunters use to gain this knowledge is known as “The Magic Mile.”