Let's save the spring flowers!

Say "NO" to flower poachers! Let's save the spring ephemerals!

The appearance of spring ephemerals is the main harbinger of spring. Under the term spring ephemerals (ephemeroids), biologists group early spring flowers that bloom before the leaves appear on trees.

These plants are often insect-pollinated. Their bright flowers are easily visible when the lower layers of the leafless forest are well lit. They usually bloom in April (in particularly warm years – from mid-March) until mid-May. Among the spring ephemerals are also plants included in the Red Book of Belarus – wood anemone, European globeflower, meadow pasqueflower, pasqueflower, baneberry, marsh violet, wild garlic (ramson), and others. After a long winter, longing for sun and warmth, people rejoice at every green sprout and, going to the forest, invariably want to bring home a bouquet of spring ephemerals. But such "forest souvenirs" quickly wilt, and around large cities, these wonderful flowers are becoming fewer and fewer. Therefore, the problem of protecting early-blooming plants is particularly acute. Spring ephemerals bloom for only a few weeks. During this short period, plants need to accumulate nutrients necessary for the next year, mature, and disperse seeds. For many species, annual harvesting has led to a sharp reduction in their former distribution range. In accordance with Article 24 of the Law of the Republic of Belarus "On the Flora", the unauthorized removal and transplantation of wild plants belonging to species included in the Red Book of the Republic of Belarus from their habitat, their illegal trade, as well as their removal and any other actions that may lead to their death, reduction in numbers, or disruption of their habitat, are prohibited. For violation of the requirements of the specified article of the Law, guilty persons are brought to administrative responsibility in accordance with Article 16.8 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Belarus. Remember, by picking and selling spring ephemerals, we destroy them, and by buying them, we encourage "flower" poachers. It is best not to touch rare and early spring flowers: they are more beautiful in their natural environment. Do not pick them for bouquets; it is better to admire them in nature and preserve this beauty for future generations. Each person's refusal to buy endangered flowers will give them a chance to bloom.

every spring for many years to come.

Protecting spring flowers is our common cause!