Tips & FAQ
Everything you need to know before your first scrumping trip, plus answers to common questions.
Foraging tips
Identify before you pick
Never eat anything you cannot confidently identify. When in doubt, leave it out, or use the photo identification tool in the report form.
Ask before you pick on private land
A FORAGE spot marks something free to pick from a public or common area. Always get permission before picking on land you do not own.
Take only what you need
Leave enough behind for wildlife, other foragers, and the plant itself to keep producing next season.
Know the season
Use the in season overlay on the map to see what is actually ripe right now, so you are not walking to an empty tree.
Bring the right gear
A bag, scissors or secateurs for herbs, and gloves for anything with thorns will save you a lot of trouble.
Wash before you eat
Rinse anything you forage before eating it, the same as you would with produce from a shop.
Frequently asked questions
What is scrumping?
Scrumping is an old word for picking fruit, historically without asking first. Scrump keeps the name but not the spirit: every spot on the map is either free to pick (FORAGE) or explicitly for sale (VENDOR). Read the full story on the About page.
Is foraging legal?
It depends on where you are and who owns the land. Public land often allows foraging for personal use, private land always needs the owner's permission. When in doubt, ask.
What is the difference between a FORAGE and a VENDOR spot?
A FORAGE spot is free to pick. A VENDOR spot is a farm stand, apiary, or similar business selling produce, marked so you know to pay before you pick.
How do I report a new spot?
Tap Report a spot on the map, drop a pin, pick the produce, and submit. No account needed.
Is scrump free to use?
Yes, scrump is free and does not require an account.
Does scrump work offline?
Reports made without a connection are queued on your device and sent automatically once you are back online.