Sloes

[albertajune]

We usually pick sloes each year for annual Christmas sloe gin, but this year the tree near us is devoid of them. Has anyone seen sloes or is this a general thing this year.

[lancashire lass]

blackthorn flower very early and if you remember, it was exceptionally cold this spring for a long time so not much insect life during the day - I would not be at all surprised if the fruits are a bit on the low side this year

[p.penn]

Oh no! Please don't say that! I was hoping to make some gin this year as I didn't last year

[naveed01]

While out looking for a future supply of sloes, we found hazel nut trees that are absolutely full of nuts. I know that they are not ready until they start to fall, about late Oct - Nov, but don't know how well they keep. I imagine they have to be dried a bit to keep well but am not sure. We must pick before the squirrels take them, although they are important for their winter store.

[manda]

Naveed...do they have squirrels in Pakistan? I didn't think they did.