Wood anemones, forest cowslips, leather flowers and forest violets: If you are currently out and about in the forests in the district, you can literally see how the forest is awakening again after the long winter. "These so-called geophytes have storage organs in the soil and can therefore take advantage of the favourable light conditions in early spring before the trees sprout," explains Dr. Simon Boden, Head of the Forestry Department at the Ludwigsburg District Office.
As beautiful as the flowers would look in a vase at home, not all early bloomers can be picked. "The white wood anemone or the purple leather flower, for example, are protected species. The cowslip is also a protected species," says Dr. Boden. In contrast, according to the state forest law, non-protected spring bloomers up to the size of a hand bouquet may be picked. Collecting for commercial use requires a permit. His advice is to enjoy the sea of color and discover the forest with all your senses. "The memory of it will certainly last longer than the bouquet in the vase."
Around three quarters of the forests in the district are recreational forests
The forests in the district are not only a valuable habitat for numerous animal and plant species, but also important recreational areas: around three quarters of the forest area in the Ludwigsburg district is officially designated as a recreational forest. Especially in spring, when nature awakens, many people are drawn to the forest to relax and recharge their batteries."Even a short walk in the forest has health-promoting effects. However, in order for all recreational demands on the forest to be met, prudent behavior and consideration on the part of each individual is required. This applies both to the forest visitors themselves and to the forest animals that are currently busy breeding and rearing," says Dr. Boden. "It is therefore best to stay on the paths and keep your four-legged friends on a lead."
