Have you foraged for Wild Garlic?

Now. I am by no means an expert when it comes to foraged food.

Blackberries and wild garlic are probably the only ones I dare to do!

But wild garlic is ace. And it’s so easy to find! I mean, find a damp wooded spot near water and you won’t be disappointed! Plus, it’s a really cool way to incentivise a walk and there are loads of tasty things to do with your foraged findings afterwards!

But here are a few things to know about foraging wild garlic before you head out

When do I pick Wild Garlic?

Any time between the end of March and probably May. After that point you might be struggling as it’s best when it’s first spouted and before it has produced it’s beautiful flowers.

Where can I pick Wild Garlic in the Yorkshire Dales?

Well, anywhere that’s damp and dark. It likes shady spots like woodland, and nutrient rich soil, so that’s a great starting point. BUT and there’s a big but!

As with all foraging and picking there are some things you need to know and respect. Here’s a brief outline of some of the guidelines in place to help everybody to forage responsibly.

• First things first, do some research before you head out (we have a few walk suggestions below). You are not allowed to forage on a SSSI (site of special scientific interest) or a national nature reserve. These are areas of conservation that are protected by law in order to preserve the delicate ecosystems that are present there. To remove anything is not allowed for obvious reasons. If on private land, seek the owner’s permission first. A quick search should give you the information you need about where you intend on picking.

• Obviously, respect signage and stick to the path. There will be plenty of other species of plants in an amongst the wild garlic (including plants like bluebells) so they must not be trampled or you risk permanent damage to the area.

• Do not remove the bulb of the plant. This means it can keep coming back year after year.

• Don’t take too much. The garlic is not just for our delight and delicious pleasure! It feeds other creatures too (including other foragers!) Always pick where there is plenty to go around.

How do I know it’s Wild Garlic?

Crush it between your fingers. If it smells of garlic, that’s it! But like I say, I am no expert, so we always find the Woodland Trust’s website really helpful, there are a few plants that like to imitate wild garlic so do have a read before you head out.