Have i found sloes??

[blue411]

Im really hoping i've located a sloe bush so i've attached a picture (left picture) for some more expert advice , i've also attached a picture (right picture) of another bush i found plenty of but not sure what it is or if its edible so any further advice would be appreciated .

Thanks

[veggiechicken]

Looks like sloes and the red ones are hawthorn. See my photos here http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/gra...ml#post1032485

[blue411]

Yay!!! Thanks veggiechicken

[veggiechicken]

My pleasure - welcome to the world of Foraging

[blue411]

I was given two books a Christmas and ive been waiting to get out there and see what i could find, its very exciting!

[veggiechicken]

Keep an eye on the "What I foraged today" thread to see what else is in season. I lurve free food

[Kleftiwallah]

Just chew one and if your cheeks touch on the inside. . . .it's a sloe.

Wait untill after a frost before collecting.

Cheers, Tony.

[blue411]

I hope you dont mind me asking but are all small apples crab apples??? ive just seen your recipe for Sloe jam and ive seen loads of trees with small apples on them (well i saw them last year and im hoping they will still produce like last year), but im not sure if all apples are classed as crab apples.

[veggiechicken]

I've found many wild apple trees around. I wouldn't call them crabapples but they do the same job in a jam.
More info at British Trees: Crab apple

[Jeanied]

You can pick your sloes now and freeze them - does the same job as a frost.

[blue411]

I've picked them and im going to freeze them like you suggested, i just couldnt wait!! As i was picking them a gentleman walked past and said " someone's going to have nice jam" i never really thought of jam i just thought of sloe gin.

[Two_Sheds]

Wait untill after a frost before collecting.

No need really ~ and we can't round here anyway, because someone comes out and takes them before they're even properly ripe.

[Kleftiwallah]

I think the idea of waiting for a frost is to also ensure the sloes are fully grown and have a high flavour content.
Sloe wine is particularly nice.

Cheers, Tony.

[northepaul]

Keep an eye on the "What I foraged today" thread to see what else is in season. I lurve free food

I know I've been away for a while, but I cant find this thread....?? I've looked in all sections....can you please point me in the right direction? Ta

[Jeanied]

For some reason it is in the vegging out section, Thea!

http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/gra...day_67434.html