Although each season has its merits, and I look forward to them all, September is one of my favourite months for observing the turning of the season. Being fortunate enough to live in the countryside I become aware of the gradual changes. As yet, the leaves haven't changed colour - but the hedgerows are becoming full of wonderful things to admire and gather.
On the way back from the plot this morning, I stopped off at one or two places where I knew (or hoped) that there would be plenty of pickings. I wasn't disappointed.
I love seeing the elder bushes dripping with fruit. The hedgerows are studded with purple berries - making foragers of us all.
The sloes are also ripening quite nicely - I know of some bushes where the sloes grow almost as big as damsons - unfortunately last year the council cut them back as they were threatening to grow too far on to the road. So maybe this year there won't be as many - I'll have to and check.
Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better Albert Einstein |
Elderberries Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life Rachel Carson |
I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have mny senses put in order John Burroughs |
blackberries |
Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature.
It will never fail you.
Frank Lloyd Wright
Blackberries are eminently photographable aren't they - the greens, reds and purples of the berries make a great subject.
Who can resist blackberry-picking - whilst we were on holiday, early one morning, we saw two ladies doing just that behind the shore-line at Snettisham where there is a wild area. The blackberries were smaller than we see inland - but they do have a lot of rough weather to put up with. I will freeze those that I pick and wait till the Bramleys are ready - and make some blackberry and apple jam.
Or maybe I will collect some crab apples
If you know where to look there are plenty of apples to be had. Come forth into the light of things let nature be your teacher Wm. Wordsworth |
And finally, there are the rosehips
Happiness is looking out across fresh fields gazing at a distant tree feeling the sun on your back and the wind brushing your skin Anon. |
I am hoping to be able to collect enough rosehips to make some jelly this year - a kilo should be enough, but that requires a lot of picking. I drive slowly along the lanes when I am on a journey ready to slam on the brakes if I see some edibles calling out to be collected. When out walking I always have plastic bags in my pockets - just in case. You never know when you are going to come across a field of mushrooms or a stray plum tree.
It is definitely the best time of year for making the most of what nature has to offer.