They can be processed into healthy and tasty teas and provide a natural ingredient for making syrup. But harvesting elderflowers requires some skill. It takes place during a certain time in summer.
The fragrant elderflowers can be harvested in June
When the time has come
Elderflowers are ready for harvest from June to early July. The fragrant umbels of elder are harvested on sunny days. The picking should not take place immediately after a rainy day, otherwise the flowers have less pollen and no longer taste as sweet. The aroma is particularly intense when the petals are fully open.
Method:
- break off entire umbels
- Shake inflorescences vigorously to allow insects to flee
- Place the elderflowers in a wicker basket
tips
You should not wash the umbels, as this will result in the loss of valuable flavors. Instead, pick out brown blossoms by hand and tap off dirt.