Who does not know them, the stinging nettle? It is considered to have healing powers, is rich in nutrients, a good indicator plant and has been processed as liquid manure and used as fertilizer and pesticides. But how do you harvest them?

Wear gloves when harvesting nettles

Harvest time: May to September

Harvest time is from April/May to September. Depending on when the first heavy frost occurs, nettles can be harvested well into November. The flowers are present from July to September, while the seeds are ready by late September/early October.

Occurrence of the stinging nettle

Stinging nettles are often found on the edges of forests, on bodies of water, on meadows and generally in partially shaded locations. They are a nitrogen indicator or indicate a high nutrient content in the soil.

What can you harvest and how does it taste?

All parts of the nettle plant are edible (and healthy). Mostly the leaves and seeds are harvested. The seeds taste mildly nutty and the leaves have a sweet, earthy flavor reminiscent of spinach when cooked.

The young shoots are best suited for harvesting. They are less rich in nitrates than the older parts. The roots can be harvested from the 2nd year. Only then are they big enough to make their harvest worthwhile.

Pick without burning wheals afterwards

On the tip of the hairs there is a 'little head' that is filled with silicic acid. It causes a fire when touched. Itchy wheals also develop. Therefore, you should always wear gloves when harvesting. Thin cloth gloves are not enough. Thick knitted gloves or leather garden gloves are better for picking or cutting off the shoots.

Process after harvest

After harvesting, the nettles should be processed or used quickly. Otherwise their aromas and active ingredients will evaporate. Stinging nettles are suitable fresh or dried for, among other things:

  • liquid manure
  • tea
  • spinach
  • smoothie
  • soups
  • juices
  • Food for pets such as rabbits, chickens, ducks

tips

If the nettles are already in bloom, harvesting the leaves is less recommended. They then taste less good and are slightly fibrous.

Category:

Herbs