Foraging for Tea in Fall

Fall is one of the most rewarding times of year for gardeners and herbal tea lovers. The garden is slowing down, wild plants are offering their final gifts, and the cool air makes a warm cup of tea especially comforting. While many think of spring and summer as the prime seasons for gathering herbs, autumn holds a surprising abundance of flavors, nutrients, and wellness benefits waiting to be brewed.

Last week I ventured out into our new woods with my aunt and we found all kinds of fall goodness for our teacups. My most exciting find was to discover I have wild roses growing on the edge of the property and the vines are chock full of rose hips!

In this guide, I’ll share the herbs, berries, and leaves I love to forage in fall, along with how to harvest and preserve them.

Why Forage for Fall Teas?

Foraging isn’t just about gathering wild plants—it’s about reconnecting with the rhythm of the season. Autumn brings plants into their final stage of growth, concentrating energy in roots, berries, and seeds. Many of these are perfect for tea-making: warming, immune-boosting, and grounding.

Benefits of fall foraging include:

• Wellness support: Many autumn herbs strengthen the immune system and support respiratory health.
• Unique flavors: From tart berries to earthy roots, fall teas offer rich, complex tastes.
• Seasonal connection: Brewing what you’ve gathered deepens your bond with nature and the cycle of the year.

Herbs and Plants to Forage in Fall

Here are some of the best finds for tea lovers in autumn. Always be sure to properly identify plants before harvesting and gather responsibly—take only what you’ll use and leave enough for wildlife.

Rose Hips

Flavor: Tart, fruity, slightly floral.

Benefits: Rich in vitamin C; supports immunity during cold season.

Harvest Tips: Wait until after the first frost for the sweetest flavor. Snip the hips from wild or garden roses, remove stems and seeds before drying.

Elderberries

Flavor: Deep, earthy, slightly sweet.

Benefits: Famous for cold and flu support; high in antioxidants.

Harvest Tips: Clusters should be fully ripe (dark purple-black). Never consume raw—dry or simmer before use.

Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)

Flavor: Mildly sweet, with a hint of anise or hay.

Benefits: Supports urinary tract and seasonal allergies.

Harvest Tips: Gather flowering tops just as blooms open in late summer to early fall. Dry in bundles.

Nettle (Fall Growth)

Flavor: Green, earthy, slightly nutty.

Benefits: Mineral-rich, supports energy and seasonal transitions.

Harvest Tips: Snip young regrowth leaves in early fall; wear gloves to avoid stings.

Mint & Lemon Balm (Second Growth)

Flavor: Bright, refreshing, citrusy.

Benefits: Digestive support, calming, uplifting.

Harvest Tips: Cut back plants after summer flowering; many put out fresh tender leaves in fall.

Wild Apple & Crabapple Leaves

Flavor: Subtly fruity and tannic.

Benefits: Gentle digestive aid; adds body to blends.

Harvest Tips: Pick young, unblemished leaves; dry flat. Pairs well with spices.

Roots (Dandelion, Burdock, Chicory)

Flavor: Earthy, toasty, coffee-like.

Benefits: Liver and digestion support; grounding for colder months.

Harvest Tips: Dig roots after the first frost when plants concentrate energy underground. Scrub well, slice, and roast before brewing.

How to Harvest and Preserve

Drying: Hang small bundles upside down in a dark, airy space or spread leaves/berries on screens.

Storing: Keep in airtight jars away from light and heat. Label with name and date.

Freezing: Berries like elderberry or rose hip can also be frozen for syrups or teas later.

Roasting Roots: Slice roots thin, roast at low heat (200°F) until dry and aromatic, then store.

Foraging Safety Reminders

Correct ID is key: Some plants have toxic look-alikes. Use a field guide or local expert if unsure.

Harvest clean areas: Avoid roadsides, sprayed fields, or polluted waterways.

Sustainable practices: Take no more than one-third of a patch. Wildlife depends on these plants too.

Know your body: Even safe herbs can cause allergies or interactions. Start with small amounts.

Bringing the Season Into Your Cup

There’s something special about sipping tea you’ve gathered yourself. Each cup becomes a reflection of the season—the tartness of rose hips, the grounding flavor of roasted roots, the bright lift of mint. Autumn foraging encourages us to slow down, savor nature’s gifts, and prepare for the winter ahead.

So grab a basket, head to your garden or a nearby trail, and see what fall has to offer. With a little knowledge and care, you’ll find your pantry (and your teacup), overflowing with seasonal abundance.