In the UK, November can be a challenging month for foraging due to the cooler and wetter weather. However, there are still some wild edibles and useful plants you might find in the forest during this time of the year. Keep in mind that the availability of these items can vary depending on your specific location and local conditions. Here are some things you might be able to forage for in UK forests in November:
- Mushrooms: While many mushroom species are more abundant in the earlier part of autumn, you may still find some late fruiting fungi like winter chanterelles (also known as yellowlegs), velvet shank, and some types of oyster mushrooms.
- Nuts: Depending on the tree species in your area, you might find acorns from oak trees and beech nuts. These can be collected and processed into food after leaching out tannins.
- Rose Hips: Rose hips, the fruit of wild roses, can still be found on some bushes. They are high in vitamin C and can be used to make tea, syrup, or jelly.
- Hawthorn Berries: Hawthorn trees produce small red berries that are edible. They can be used to make jams, jellies, or herbal remedies.
- Sloes: The fruit of the blackthorn bush, sloes are often used to make sloe gin or preserves.
- Elderberries: While elderberries are generally in season from late summer to early autumn, you may still find some on the trees in November. They are often used for making elderberry syrup and other recipes.
- Nettles: While not as tender as in the spring, some nettle tops may still be suitable for cooking, provided you wear gloves to protect against stings.
- Wild Greens: Look for cold-resistant greens like wild garlic, dandelion leaves, and chickweed.
- Pine Needles: Pine needles can be used to make pine needle tea, which is rich in Vitamin C.
- Seaweed: If you are near the coast, you might consider foraging for edible seaweed, which can be found year-round.
Always be absolutely certain of the identification of any wild plant or mushroom you intend to consume, and follow ethical foraging practices by only taking what you can use without harming the environment. Additionally, be aware of any local regulations and restrictions on foraging in specific areas.
Check out my list for the Best Foraging Bags
