Nettles are another free food in abundance and don’t worry, they don’t sting once they’re cooked! Nettles are high in nutrients, they’re an excellent source of calcium, iron and magnesium.

The best leaves to use are from the new shoots in springtime, however, the new leaves at the top of older plants can be used. Older shoots and leaves tend to be bitter and stringy, so they are best avoided.

When harvesting, make sure you wear gloves, obviously and don’t harvest near roadsides or derelict land. Wash the leaves thoroughly to get rid of any grit.

Watercress is a delicious plant that can be used as a salad or as a vegetable. It can be used in sauces, soups, as stuffing (especially good with fish) and as a flavour enhancer for many dishes. It’s always been a favourite of mine, I love the peppery taste.

Watercress also has great health benefits. We’ve talked before about foods that help to improve your health, particularly in the Food that makes you look Beautiful post and Watercress is definitely one of those foods.

So, did you go blackberry picking this weekend? I hope so! Like I said in my post about Free Food, now is the perfect time for blackberry picking. There are many recipes for using blackberries; crumbles, jams, smoothies, icecream and many more!

So, here as promised, is my mum’s delicious blackberry jam recipe…

Yes, that’s right – free food! If you know where to find it! This is the perfect time to go foraging in the hedgerows, woods and on the seashore. If you’re planning on going walking this weekend, why not pick up some delicious treats along the way.

You can find fruits, nuts, herbs, leafy vegetables, mushrooms and shellfish.
There’s an abundance of wild food out there but beware, there are certain rules / advice you need to follow.