FORAGING TIPS

LOOK FOR ELDERFLOWER FROM MAY. It usually blooms through June and often into July, depending on the weather.

HEAD OUT ON A DRY SUNNY MORNING before insects have harvested the pollen.

SNIP THE FLOWER HEADS OFF with as little stalk as possible, to avoid damaging the plant. The blooms will eventually turn into elderberries, so leave some behind for the birds.

DROP THE FLOWERS into a large fabric bag or basket so they don’t get crushed.

AVOID ANY THAT SMELLS OF URINE: that means it’s past its best.

DON’T WASH IT once you’re home: it will remove the natural yeast and affect the flavour.

USE as soon as possible.*