Let a discovery stay
Leaving plants, stones and other natural objects in place is a Leave No Trace principle. On our walk, we can describe a shape instead of packing a souvenir. Whether collecting is permitted depends on the place and the species.
Evidence / further reading: National Park Service · Leave No Trace, Blue Ridge Parkway ↗
Treat the unfamiliar carefully
Some plants can irritate skin on contact. That does not make every plant dangerous. Avoid touching or tasting unfamiliar plants to investigate them, and accompany children as they explore. A beautiful colour says nothing about safety.
Evidence / further reading: Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung · Giftpflanzen ↗
Sources & further reading
Facts and basic guidance draw on the sources below. Observation exercises and reflections are our own invitations.
