How to find berries in the city

When we think about picking fresh fruit, we generally imagine being out in the country or maybe in our own suburban gardens. These are all great places to find berries and other fruits, but did you know that berries grow in many major urban areas as well? If you know where and how to look, you can find berries of all kinds growing in even an urban jungle.

• Most forms of invasive plant life are annoying.
• They're common weeds that trouble gardeners and fill the air with allergens, although some are also surprisingly resilient food sources.
• Blackberries are especially common urban food plants.
• Hardy, fast-growing, and pervasive, blackberry brambles take root in many urban areas, especially in the Pacific Northwest.
• Keep an eye out for thick bunches of green leaves with thorny stems.
• These are likely blackberry plants, which sprout black and red berries, even along overgrown roadsides.
• Since many bramble owners aren't even aware of the plant, you'll probably be welcome to take as many berries as you like.

• Homeowners with fruit plants often underestimate just how much their gardens will produce in a season.
• Take a walking tour in the spring to spot which houses in your neighbourhood have berry bushes and vines.
• In peak berry season (high summer), many home gardeners are happy to part with their excess fruit at little to no cost.
• Unlike with wild plants, you shouldn't just take the fruit without asking, though.
• Do the polite thing and ring the doorbell before you fill your basket.

• This one is an ever-evolving issue.
• Many public parks are replete with fruit-producing plants, and only a few cities have laws prohibiting foraging in these community green spaces.
• Look into your local park laws before berry hunting in your neighbourhood park.
• Even if foraging is legal in your area, be courteous and only take small amounts. Over-picking can impact the beauty and long-term viability of park plants, plus it's inconsiderate of other park foragers.
• No matter where you get your urban berries, take extra precautions before and after picking.
• Wear gloves and prepare for common foraging concerns like cuts and splinters.
• Also, research what fertilisers and pesticides your city and neighbours use, and always wash foraged berries thoroughly.
• With a keen eye, a conservationist approach and a bit of horticultural knowledge, you can find enough berries in your city to keep you stocked all season long.