Hedgerows

[maxilaura]

Just read an interesting article about Hedges in the 18 April 2012 edition of Country Life (can't find the online link for it though).

Below are a couple of the interesting bits from the article:

"Many hedgerow plants produce a harvest that wise country folk reaped in autumns long gone; some still do. Nuts and fruit were there for the picking; it was a munificent larder for humans to share with birds and beasts. Village lads were paid a penny a bag for rosehips to be made into syrup under a Government scheme to eradicate scabies caused by lack of Vitamin C. Many a bowl of sour apples were sweetened with blackberries, much wine and preserves were made and, in lean times, a good hedge kept the spectre of hunger at arm's length. By ancient charter bestowed by an aristcracy not noted for its generosity to the peasantry, this food was free."

As I said, quite an interesting article to read, and now I want to get a mini guide to help me identify what is growing in my local hedge and what can be used / made from it.

[jansman]

The hedge is a good source of grub,particularly in the Autumn. If you know your fungus,have a catapult and keen eye,the hedge is worth a look.

Good post!

[Moony]

As I said, quite an interesting article to read, and now I want to get a mini guide to help me identify what is growing in my local hedge and what can be used / made from it.

Think you'll find 'food for free' collins gem (v.cheap) is on most preppers shelves, if you haven't already got it it should cover pretty much everything growing in your local hedges !

[moocher]

food for free by richard mabey

[Tocsin]

There is a hedgerow near where I live on an old road where I collect rosehops every year. Rosehip wine and last year my first go at rosehip syrup. There are plenty of brambles as well. The only issue is time to pick them and to process them. Last year I also collected Rowan berries and used a reciepe for rowan berry and rosehip wine. I'm sure that there is plenty more out there to forrage for, but it's getting time

[diamond lil]

I pick brambles and rasps for jam, and am always looking for something to do with rowan berries cos there's a lot of them here.I haven't got that book though, that would be handy.

[jansman]

I just bought 'The thrifty forager' by Alys Fowler. It is about urban foraging. Lots of pictures and interesting ideas. Got it from The Works discount bookshop for £4.99.

[maxilaura]

I will definitely be getting a book on foraging and also would be keen to go on one of those foraging walks that are held, need to look into the details for one near me