Can Eating Weeds Mixed with Garden Greens Be Dangerous?

Definitely a concern, but a single random stem is unlikely to cause harm. However, there are some nasty weeds out there! I once heard about someone who accidentally inhaled Jimson weed while mowing and ended up in the ER with severe toxicity! Nature isn’t always friendly, so it’s smart to keep an eye out for what you're growing alongside your plants. Just ask your farmer about any odd plants you might find in your purchase.

Don't stress too much! Most toxic plants taste awful, so you're less likely to eat enough of them to get seriously sick. It’s a good practice to sort through your veggies before washing them, and get rid of anything you’re unsure about. Knowing the toxic plants in your area can also help. In my experience, most serious issues arise from wild mushrooms—like Death Caps—not from accidentally grabbing a weed or two. Just keep learning and you'll be fine!

Yes, there’s always a risk when it comes to wild plants! Some can be extremely poisonous, like Conium maculatum (poison hemlock) and Oenanthe javanica (water dropwort), both of which can grow alongside your veggies. It’s crucial for gardeners to be able to differentiate between edible greens and toxic weeds. While cilantro is usually distinct enough, this is a reminder to always be cautious. If you’re unsure, do some research or get help identifying the plants in your garden. Better safe than sorry!