Now Forage

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus): Deep black and pulls free with zero resistance. Juicy and sweet; no red remaining at the core. Harvest in the morning when cool.

Blackthorn: Sloe berries: small, round, blue-black with a heavy bloom. Intensely astringent raw — traditionally harvested after the first frost, which breaks down tannins. Best used for sloe gin or jelly. Spiny branches — wear gloves when harvesting.

Chestnut: Spiny green burs split open to reveal 2–3 shiny brown chestnuts. Gather from the ground after they fall. Must be cooked (roasted, boiled, or ground into flour) — toxic raw in large quantities. Peel the papery inner skin after cooking.

Sour cherry: Bright to deep red, slightly translucent. Firmer than sweet cherries when ripe. Strong tart flavour — avoid if still pale or streaked green. Harvest before birds; fruits hang briefly after colouring.