Stinging Nettle: Foraging & Tasting

Learn how to identify, gather, and safely consume the incredible stinging nettle!

Urtica dioica - commonly known as stinging nettles (and to some as burn hazel) has a long history of use as food, medicine, and natural plant cordage. Their benefits are many, though you may be hard to convince if you know them primarily from hiking off trail wearing shorts in the summer. Sure, they sting, but that may actually be a good thing - plus they are one of the healthiest plants to eat and can be used in many different ways.

If all of this surprises you, join us for a focus specifically on this amazing plant. We’ll discuss history and ecology, identification and harvest, and meet nettles where they grow best - and of course, we’ll do some preparation and tasting.

Bring a drawing pad and pencil for sketching and notes, a cup for tasting tea, and dress for potentially muddy ground. We’ll be getting up close and personal.

Additionally, each participant will receive fresh Stinging Nettle leaves for tea preparation at home.


Program Notes: 

Environment: Weather allowing, this class will take place primarily outdoors. Be prepared for possible muddy conditions.

Arrival: Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin each class on time. More details about parking will be communicated in a reminder email days before the program. 

Audience: While this class is suited for adult learning, children are welcome to attend. Any child above 13 must be registered separately. Children 12 and younger may attend without charge, but must be accompanied by a registering adult.

Cost: The standard cost for this program is $25/person. Sliding scale options are available to support accessibility.

Dogs: Since the Horn Farm is a working farm with active restoration spaces, we do not allow dogs in our programs. Thank you for understanding. 

Cancellation: All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here


About the Instructor:

Jonathan Darby is a wild foods enthusiast and educator, avid gardener, former farmer, and has served the Horn Farm Center in varying capacities for over 15 years. He currently serves as Farm and Agroforestry Manager. Jonathan received his Permaculture Design Certification in 2011 from Susquehanna Permaculture and in 2014 completed his Permaculture Teacher Training through Dynamic Ecological Design. He is married with 2 kids and 3 cats.


 

When
April 23rd, 2026 from  5:30 PM to  7:30 PM
Location
4945 Horn Rd
York, PA 17406
United States
Contact
Phone: (717) 757-6441
Event Fee(s)
Monthly Foraging Walk
Tier 1 (regular admission)` $25.00
Tier 2 (reduced cost) $16.00
Tier 3 (pay-it-forward) $34.00
Optional Donation