For those planning to head out, now is a good time. “Everybody can sense the fizz in the ground,” says Pennington. “All the wild herbs are springing up.” You should lightly clean your mushroom brush after each use in the field and do a deep clean semi-frequently to remove debris build up and bacteria. Depending on how often you forage for mushrooms, this can mean cleaning your mushroom brush weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or even bi-monthly.

Most trowels range in size, but it’s best to use a smaller trowel when foraging for mushrooms. If desired, you can even invest in a mini gardening trowel. Mini gardening sets and tools have become increasingly popular as people look to create smaller versions of gardens. Magnifying Glass Well, I’m convinced! So, what’s first on my wild food shopping list? I think it’s time you revealed the answer to your question, Beth.If you’re looking for mushrooms of a certain size, you can use a scale to measure them prior to using your knife. Some knives have a scale engraved on them, but you can also carry a ruler or measuring instrument. What Qualities Make a Good Mushroom Knife?

OK. I'll reveal the answer later in the programme. Monica Wilde, known as Mo, is the author of The Wilderness Cure, a book charting her year of eating only wild food. Mo is one of a group of 26 experienced foragers taking part in the ‘Wild Biome Project’, a three-month experiment into the health benefits of introducing wild food into your diet. The Wild Biome Project hasn’t finished yet, but it already seems that the foragers are feeling happier as well as healthier. They all report greater appreciation for the smell and taste of their food, and say foraging has given them increased self-worth, a natural treatment for depression and anxiety. Here’s one forager describing her feelings to BBC Radio 4’s, The Food Programme. Choose the method you’re most comfortable with. Make sure to pay particular attention to the base of your brush, where more dirt may accumulate. Small Gardening TrowelHowever, please note that the best book can vary based on personal preferences and the specific region you're interested in. It's a good idea to also explore other well-reviewed options, such as "Food for Free" by Richard Mabey (Collins Gem).