In addition to the main autumn crops, apples and more, it is also well worthwhile working out what your autumn surroundings can provide. Even if you don’t have a garden full of food, your local area might provide a wide range of yields.
Both in my own garden, and in the surrounding area, we can find plenty of edible resources at this time of year. And while you may not find exactly the same things where you live, it is likely that you will find plenty of forage at this time of year.
First of all, of course, there are the hedgerow fruits and berries: crab apples, wild plums, blackberries, sloes, elderberries, rose hips, haws, flowering quince, barberries, rowan berries, and more.
Then there are the wild weeds – edible greens that are available throughout all the seasons. Edible greens may be more abundant in spring and early summer. But there are still plenty of edible greens to enjoy at this time of year. Common sorrel, nettles, fat hen, lamiums and more… there are also plenty of seeds that can be collected at this time of year – either to eat, or for sowing in a wildlife friendly garden.
Of course, the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness is also the best time to forage for edible fungi. It is important not to take any risks with foraging. Ideally, forage with an expert on edible fungi if you plan to take advantage of this wild resource.
Remember, hedgerows, woodlands, coastlines and wild spaces of all kinds can offer a bounty – not just of edible yields but also potentially of other resources. For example, (with a landowner’s permission where necessary), you may be able to gather fallen leaves, branches or twigs for use in composting/ making leaf mould, to make garden supports etc..
Whether in your garden, or in your local area, autumn is a great time to head out to make the most of all that nature can provide.
EWSP Consultancy 