When you think of tea are you thinking of a little tiny tea bag?  Or, maybe some kind of black tea or green tea in your little tiny tea bag?

Most people think Lipton when referring to tea. Here’s another “L” thought: Lawn. Yep, drink your lawn, not literally, well, actually, literally. But also, meadows, woodlands, gardens and maybe a few more places. I think of plants in my yard, forest and garden when I think tea. Like mint that grows along the rock wall, or maybe the stinging nettles that bites when you least expect it, the red clover that blooms so beautifully in the pasture. Let that clover grow in the garden and harvest it. Gather the blossoms of the red clover before you mow your lawn. Look a little higher along the edge of the forest and find some blueberry leaves or a little lower and find some wild strawberry leaves. All are great tea leaves to put in your tea bag.  Be sure to identify the plant – without a doubt – before harvesting.  Not sure about identifying wild plants?  Grow it in your garden and know for sure.

In this summer time of year, I harvest many plants to dry and store for winter tea blending.

There’s the Peaceful Dreams mix that can get you through the long nights here in the north.  The Light Your Fire mix can warm you right up on a cold day or night. Then there’s the Garden Tea Blend that is a great overall, anytime of day or night cup of tea.

Note: Always properly identify your plants before wildcrafting.