Here’s what you need to know to sustainably forage ramps (also known as wild leeks) this spring.
Pick pretty much any hardwood forest to trek through over the next couple months, and you’ll find long, leafy bunches of ramps popping up through last season’s leaves. As tempting as it may be to pluck a few of these wild alliums while you walk, it’s illegal in Michigan to harvest ramps from state-owned lands.
So how does one partake in this spring delight? If you’re lucky, you might have ramps growing on your own property. (If not, this is a great time to make new friends!) Just remember that to harvest sustainably, it’s important to take only one leaf per plant, leaving the bulb/roots and second leaf to continue growing. And it’s best to harvest only a small amount from large, well-established colonies.
If a friend does have ramps on their property, they may be open to letting you transplant some bulbs to your own yard. They’ll take a while to establish, but the wait is worth it.
For a quicker fix, keep your eyes peeled for seasonal ramp specials at local restaurants and check your favorite farmers market for certified foragers peddling pungent bundles of these garlicky greens.
This article first appeared in Traverse Northern Michigan. Find this story and more when you explore our magazine library. Want Traverse delivered to your door or inbox monthly? View our print subscription and digital subscription options.
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