Winter can feel like a season of scarcity, but nature has surprising ways of providing if you know where to look. Foraging during the colder months can be a lifeline, offering fresh, nutritious, and sometimes medicinal wild plants and fungi. Whether you’re in the middle of nowhere or just exploring nearby woods, being able to identify and harvest these resources is not only rewarding but also essential in a pinch. Here’s a guide to ten things you can still forage in the winter when most of the world seems bare and frozen.
1. Rose Hips
Rose hips are the small, red fruits that form after roses have bloomed. These nutrient-packed orbs are loaded with vitamin C and can be found clinging to wild rose bushes, even when the first snow has fallen. They make a fantastic tea or can be added to jams for a tangy twist. Just remember to remove the seeds inside, as they can be irritating.
2. Pine Needles
The next time you pass a pine tree, think twice before you dismiss its sharp needles. Pine needles are full of vitamin C and can be brewed into a refreshing tea. Not only does it provide a nice citrus flavor, but it can also be a great immune booster during cold season. Be sure to avoid yew, which looks similar but is toxic!
3. Burdock Root
Burdock is known for its clinging burrs, but it also hides an edible root beneath the ground. Even in the winter, burdock roots can be dug up and eaten. They’re earthy, full of fiber, and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The best time to harvest is during the plant’s first year, so keep an eye out for where burdock grows in the fall to return to in winter.
4. Chickweed
Chickweed might look delicate, but it’s surprisingly cold-hardy. This low-growing plant often stays green and vibrant under a blanket of snow. You can find it in forest edges or your own backyard. It’s edible raw and is perfect for salads or as a fresh addition to winter stews.
5. Wintergreen Berries
If you’re lucky enough to live in a region where wintergreen grows, you’ll know it by its signature minty aroma. Wintergreen berries (and leaves) can be foraged during winter and are often found under the snow. These berries are great for soothing a sore throat or just enjoying as a sweet, refreshing snack. Just be sure not to confuse them with other red berries, which could be toxic.
6. Mushrooms (Oyster and Velvet Foot)
Even in winter, certain mushrooms can thrive. Oyster mushrooms and velvet foot mushrooms grow on decaying wood and can withstand freezing temperatures. You’ll find them on fallen logs or stumps, especially after a light thaw. These fungi are not only edible but packed with protein and flavor, making them a perfect winter find for a warm meal.
7. Dandelion Roots
Dandelions are persistent plants, and their roots are just as tough. During winter, you can dig up dandelion roots and use them to make a coffee substitute or roast them for a nutritious addition to soups. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent foraging option when greens are scarce.
8. Wild Garlic
Wild garlic, also known as ramsons, can be found growing in woodlands, often poking through the snow. Even in the colder months, their thin, green shoots make them easy to spot. You can use the leaves, bulbs, and flowers to add a mild garlic flavor to your cooking. It’s also known for its antibacterial properties, making it a natural addition to any survival pantry.
9. Cattail Roots
Cattails are a year-round foraging staple. While the tall, brown heads of cattails are a summer sight, in winter, their roots remain buried but edible. Digging for them can be a bit of work, but they’re packed with starch, making them a great survival food. Roast them or boil them to release their nutrients and enjoy a hearty addition to your winter meals.
10. Acorns
Acorns, from oak trees, are one of the most underappreciated foods in the wild. While they may require some processing—like soaking to remove their bitterness—they can be ground into a flour or roasted for snacks. Even in winter, you’ll find plenty of acorns buried under leaves or freshly fallen from the trees, especially after a windy day.
