Spring Blossom and Elderflower: Mother Nature's White Noise in the UK

While I find a sense of pleasure and gratitude for each of the changing seasons we enjoy here in the UK, May and June are my favourite. Although, much like Bruce Forsyth declaring every contestant his favourite, as autumn arrives, I’ll be saying the same about October and November with the changing colours of the trees. Or indeed February and March as the snowdrops and daffodils brighten the vista after the dull winter months. But, come the month of May, as spring moves through to summer, I really do sense a buzz in the air – a “white noise” if you like, thrumming in the background.

What Exactly is White Noise?

The Oxford English Dictionary defines white noise as “noise that contains many different sound frequencies that are equally strong, like an untuned TV or radio.” White noise could also be a whirring fan, a hissing radiator or the distant drone of traffic. I have also read that white noise can help you relax. It can encourage concentration which in turn can be helpful for sleep. While adults may enjoy the soothing sounds of the gentle lap of waves, some parents swear by playing white noise to calm an unsettled baby. Everyday household appliances, such as a washing machine, are reminiscent of the comfort and security of the womb.

The Natural White Noise of Spring

But what about the natural white noise? The buzzing bees and insects on their perpetual hunt for nectar, the ever present birds. Even the almost imperceptible day-on-day emergence of leaves on the trees could be considered a visual white noise. Ok, so maybe I am stretching the characterisation of white noise slightly to embrace other senses, not just audio. But for me, especially during the spring, there is one form of “white noise” that stands out from all the others. It doesn’t hang around for too long either, so don’t blink or you will miss it. It quite literally attacks all the senses. Not great for hay fever sufferers like me, but I am prepared to endure this one. Once you step outside you can not miss it. It fills the hedgerows and trees and flutters through the air like small flurries of snow or confetti. I am of course talking about the gorgeous blossoms and wildflowers that, for a very short period of time, grace us with their presence.

A Feast for the Senses: Spring Blossoms

From orchard fruit blossom to verge Cow Parsley and the flowers of Crab Apple, Hawthorn, and Horse Chestnut (later – those pocket-sized autumnal treasures, conkers), it’s a sensory overload. This is Mother Nature’s white noise.

Looking Forward: The Magic of Elderflower

There is another, that comes late spring, evocative of al fresco dining and summer parties. The Elderflower. This anticipation of nature’s bounty reminds us of the simple pleasures we aim to share with our guests here at Meadow Field. Particularly those who appreciate the beauty and tranquillity of the countryside. The white blooms of the Elder that appear from mid May onwards can be turned into a sweet cordial, adding a touch of summer magic to a glass of sparkling wine or G&T. Or simply enjoyed with chilled water (flat or fizzy). You can also bake with them and make jams. Many of the hedgerows surrounding our farm and the Meadow Field are heavy with Elder. Once those blooms explode onto the scene I shall be indulging in the audible white noise; the buzzing of the insects in the hedgerows. But also a visual, palpable, fragrant and inexorably edible summer sensory sensation!

Footnote; Please ensure that whilst exploring the hedgerows that you forage safely and responsibly. This link shares guidance on how to do this and also provides more information on the Elderflower and a few recipes you might enjoy trying out. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to experience this natural beauty first-hand. You can find out more about staying with us and exploring this wonderful season (indeed any season) on our website. Enjoy.