Hazels/beech/Chequers

[Mang]

I noticed that the Hazel trees near me had a bumper crop this year and, as with a lot of natural things, largely went unnoticed. I was more than a little disappointed with those collected since the majority were brown and spongey...Did anyone else find this?

Also, I've only ever found one decent Beechnut ever-Is a crop of these a myth or do the squirrels get the best and laugh in our faces?

Finally, whilst walking with the family in local woods I found three Wild Service trees (like you do) and some reachable chequers. I tried them and they tatsed somewhere between mincemeat (as in mince pie filling) and an apple just on the turn. Is this the true aquired taste of them or did I just get old ones?

 

[Ben_Hillwalker]

I had a bit of luck with hazelnuts this year as well. They were fine for me although maybe a little soft.

As for the beechmast, beeches only sporadically produce them (something like once every 7 years but don't quote me on that) so you may not find a lot unless you thoroughly check a good stand of beech trees.

'Fraid I can't help you with the chequers although I believe they are best when harvested very VERY late.

 

[John Fenna]

Ruddy bushy tailed tree rats had almost the entire crop off my hazels!
Wife will not let me shoot the little b*ggers either