Wild picking is a wonderful way to get closer to nature. But did you know that it is officially banned in the Netherlands? Because everything that grows wild - from blackberries to mushrooms - is the property of the landowner. Fortunately, they often turn a blind eye, as long as you keep it tidy. But precisely because it is tolerated, it is important to know what you are doing. What are the unwritten rules of wild picking? Game picking expert Katja Wezel of wilderlust.nl lists them for us.
Picking wild with respect for nature
Precisely because wild picking requires knowledge and respect, it is also such a valuable activity. You learn to look differently at your surroundings and discover how many edible and useful things grow just around the corner. Forget the expensive superfoodsMany plants that we think of as weeds are full of nutrients and have medicinal properties. Nettle, for instance, purifies the blood and is full of iron, perfect for tea or soup. Dandelion supports digestion and can be used from root to flower. And ground elder, the nightmare of many a gardener, turns out to be surprisingly tasty in pesto or through a stew. By picking with the seasons, you eat fresh, local and packaging-free - and get a free lesson in botany as well.
How to pick responsibly: the rules of wild picking in a row
Game picking requires attention and knowledge. It is essential to know exactly what you are picking. This is because some edible plants have poisonous doubles. A well-known example is ramson: delicious in a pesto, but easy to confuse with lily of the valley, which is extremely poisonous. Fortunately, the differences are easy to spot, but only if you look really carefully ánd know what to look for. Such care applies to all plants. And remember: wild picking is officially forbidden in the Netherlands, but is tolerated in many places. That is why it is important to follow some unwritten rules, so that we can all continue to enjoy the greenery.
- Pick only if you are sure it is an edible variety. In doubt? Then leave it.
- Sometimes it is necessary to pick something to identify it properly. Only do that if it is really necessary, and only take a small piece.
- Always bring a field guide - just a book - so you can check what you see on the spot.
- At home, it is useful to have several wild-picking books. That way you can compare plants properly.
- Bring a charged phone. Apps like ObsIdentify or PlantNet can be useful, but are no guarantee of the right answer. Use them as an aid, not as your only source.
- Don't pick vulnerable or endangered species. Just leave those.
- See only a few specimens standing together? Then: stay away.
- Do not pick in protected nature reserves. There is often a total ban on picking there.
- As a guideline, stick to picking no more than one mushroom box at a time, and only for your own use. (Exception: elderflower and elderberries.)
- Pick only what you are really going to use. Nothing for decoration or ‘just to be on the safe side’.
- Cut or trim plants carefully to allow them to grow on.
- Be considerate of animals, birds and insects. Don't disturb them to access anything.
- Always leave nature more beautiful than you found it. Come across litter? Take it and throw it away.
Why game picking rules are so important
Wildpicking is a gift from nature, but not a free buffet. By sticking to the wild picking rules, you ensure that plants can continue to grow, animals have enough to eat and others can also continue to enjoy what nature has to offer. Moreover, you learn something new with every walk and every leaf picked. So: pick with respect, be curious and be surprised by what is growing around you. Nature is generous - as long as you treat her well.
Would you also like to go on the road with Katja? Check out her website Wilderlust with all the information about its wild-picking walks and courses.
Take a look at some game picking recipes in advance
- How about Dutch garlic and ground elder pesto.
- Nice to have in the fridge: badger garlic butter!
- Need an idea for unripe green figs? You can confit green figs!
- Super delicious is also this dandelion syrup!
Photo credits: thegreenlist.nl.
