Can I simply pluck flowers?
Ready for a stunning bouquet of wildflowers this Mother's Day or came across some flowers while walking that'd look great in your living room? But is it okay to pick them? Well, it's not entirely legal, but there are exceptions.
Corinna Hölzel from the German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation (BUND) explained, "Generally, all wild plants are protected under species protection law, making it illegal to pick flowers and take plants. However, there's an exception called the 'hand bouquet rule.' It's mentioned in section 39, paragraph 3, of the Federal Nature Conservation Act. This rule allows us to 'carefully remove and appropriate for personal use' flowers, grasses, and ferns in small quantities."
However, there are conditions. You can't pick flowers in core zones of national parks or biosphere reserves. And in some federal states, you're forbidden from venturing off the designated paths during harvest seasons in agricultural and forestry areas. This means no picking off-track.
Stick to the Rules: Some Flowers Are Off-Limits
Be mindful of species protection as well. Many plants are protected by law, such as arnica, monkshood, bluestem, irises, wild tulips, carnations, and others. Don't pick those. Crocuses, snowdrops, and daffodils are also forbidden, among others. Hölzel says, "Most spring bloomers are protected because bumblebees and wild bees, which hatch early, need plenty of pollen and nectar for survival."
Picking your own bouquet comes with benefits. It's a hands-on experience with nature, making you more aware of the plants around you. Also, you avoid buying conventional bouquets that might be loaded with pesticides. She adds, "It's better to leave single flowers standing to provide pollen for insects."
The Do's and Don'ts of Choosing Your Wild Bouquet
It's permissible to gather large bouquets from lush flowering meadows, especially if you're aware they'll be mowed soon. This is more ecological since it avoids transportation. But, Hölzel suggests, "Memories are better made by leaving a single flower standing. It's better to not contribute to taking away a potential food source for insects." And, before you venture out for picking, go through the list of protected plants in Annex 1 of the Federal Species Protection Ordinance to ensure you're not collecting species that are illegal to take.
So, enjoy the outdoors, but be mindful that some flowers are better left untouched. After all, a stunning bouquet isn't worth harming nature.d.
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While exploring the outdoors for wildflowers, it's essential to remember that not all plants are legal to pick. Legal issues surrounding nature conservation should be considered, especially when it comes to protected species like arnica or monkshood. As a consumer, it's your responsibility to consult with a trustworthy advisor, such as Corinna Hölzel from the German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation, to ensure you're not harming nature unintentionally. By being mindful of the protected plants listed in Annex 1 of the Federal Species Protection Ordinance, mothers and nature lovers alike can enjoy their time in nature without causing any harm.
Source: www.ntv.de
