Abstract:

Today, chemical spraying, irrigation with sewage water and excessive fertilization on cultivated vegetables threaten human health, reduce or cause the plants to lose their natural flavor, and push people to seek safe food. In this context, people are interested in organic products and naturally grown vegetables. This study was carried out in 2019 in order to determine, classify and determine the morphological characteristics of edible wild plant species that grow in their natural habitats in Ardahan province and its districts (Posof, Damal, Hanak, Göle, Çıldır) and are known by the local people. As a result of the studies, 23 wild vegetable species consumed in Ardahan province were determined. Among these species, it was determined that gelin parmağı (Cerastium armeniacum Gren.) is an endemic species. Investigation and measurements were made on the flower, leaf and stem parts of wild plant species collected from their natural habitats and consumed as vegetables by the local people. We believe that our study results will pave the way for future breeding and cultivation studies, and can also contribute to the promotion of sustainable ecotourism and can be used to develop strategies for the sustainable use of wild edible plants, which are a natural resource.

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