Spring Ramps
After some early spring warm temps, our hopes were high for an early start to ramp season in the southeast. Well, leave it to Mother Nature to fool US again. The warm spell was followed by several weeks of chillier than normal weather, which delayed the start of the harvest, but fortunately, all good things come to those who wait – and that includes ramps. Now, as we near the end of April, ramp season is well underway and has moved north into Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York and elsewhere.
Here’s something important to remember: whether you harvest ramps yourself or purchase them from foragers or produce companies, make sure that they are harvested responsibly. Don’t buy from unscrupulous ramp harvesters who over-pick ramp patches, damaging pristine and productive wild habitats that may take many years to recover. If you harvest your own ramps, don’t pick more than 10% to 20% of a thriving patch, leaving plenty behind to reproduce, guaranteeing sustainable harvests for generations to come.
Happy picking and full baskets to all!
How much do they sell for a pound
The price of ramps varies widely, depending where you buy them and the time of the season. If you forage them yourself, they’re free, of course! But if you don’t live near an area where ramps grow in the wild, you’ll probably have to have them shipped to you by an online seller, such as Earthy.com. Prices can range from as high as $21.50 per pound early in the season, to as low as $15.50 (or even less) when the season is in full swing. Fresh products like ramps will probably require special shipping as well, which can be moderately pricey. Our suggestion is to call our partners at Earthy Delights (855-328-8732) for the latest information on pricing and shipping cost. Bon appetit!