Are flowers good to eat? These days, flowers are used primarily as ornamentation, but they actually have a long history as a human foodstuff. You probably know about the nutrition that they provide to bees-flowers are the source of honey, after all-but have never considered eating them yourself. Get over it. Flowers are delicious to eat and, when prepared properly, non-toxic.
The easiest way to ensure that you are eating flowers that won't make you sick is to grow them yourself. Once you've gotten the hang of nurturing edible flowers, you'll have a better shot at recognizing them on the plate.
Growing flowers yourself is also a good way to ensure that they haven't been treated with toxic pesticides. When you start your edible flower garden, don't use pesticides. Ever. On any part of the plant. You can deal with insect infestations with a nice, healthy soap and water bath. Wash all flowers that you pick from your garden before serving them.
Keep in mind that eating flowers can be terrifying to some people. And for good reason. Many people who suffer from food sensitivities cannot tolerate edible flowers. When you start eating them, start slowly so that your body can get used to digesting flowers.
Eat only the petals of flowers. Just because a flower is edible doesn't mean that all of its parts are. Remove the pistil and stamen from the flowers that you serve; you are not a bee, after all.
Remember: Not every flower that is served with a meal can be eaten. Some restaurants and home cooks include inedible flowers as a fanciful garnish. Never start eating a flower until you are reasonably certain that you are supposed to. That will save you both social stigma and a trip to the emergency room.
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