Every autumn, as the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I look forward to one of my favourite seasonal rituals — collecting rose-hips from the bush that grows right in the garden in front of my home. These vibrant, vitamin C-rich berries aren’t just a natural supplement to strengthen the immune system through the cold months, they are a reason for me to slow down, step into nature and feel a sense of gratitude.

For me, harvesting rose-hips is more than gathering fruit. It’s a quiet, meditative process, a way to connect with the earth and honour the gifts it provides. I pause to admire the rich reds and oranges of the berries, feeling grateful for their nourishment and resilience. Nature, in its quiet generosity, has a way of grounding us, reminding us that life is cyclical, abundant and full of tiny blessings.

Not every year has been smooth, though. Once, the gardener trimmed the bushes too severely, and I was quite upset. People often overlook the value of these plants, treating them as weeds, stripping them back without realising their medicinal worth. That year, I approached him and shared my perspective, asking him to consider the rose-hips in future trims. I could see he understood, and it was the start of mutual respect for this little corner of nature.

This year, my patience and care were rewarded. Earlier in spring, the rose-hip bush had blossomed magnificently — hundreds, if not thousands, of delicate flowers promising a rich harvest. And indeed, when autumn came, the bush was heavy with berries, vibrant and plentiful.

A few weeks ago, on my way home from work, I met the potential gardener who will be looking after the plants around our residence. He hadn’t had access to the garden yet, but I shared the story of the rose-hips, the lessons of patience, care and gratitude they had taught me. As we walked together, he smiled and said, “I will remember you, Rose-hip Lady.” It was a small, sweet recognition, but it warmed my heart. That name, given with kindness, is now a cherished reminder of my connection to the rose-hips and to the natural world around me.

Rose-hips are more than just berries — they are medicine, ritual and story. They teach us to pay attention to nurture, and to recognise abundance even in the smallest corners of our lives.

Rich Source of Vitamin C

Once the berries are harvested, the possibilities are both delicious and nourishing. Rose-hips are naturally rich in vitamin C, making them excellent for supporting the immune system, especially during the colder months. Here are some simple ways I use them:

• Rose-hip Juice: Steep dried rose-hips in hot (not boiling) water and leave overnight. This gentle approach preserves most of the vitamin C while releasing a naturally tangy, fragrant flavour.
• Cold Infusions: For maximum vitamin C, soak crushed rose-hips in cold water overnight. Strain and drink the next day — refreshing, tangy and packed with nutrients.