Nature Bulletin No. 9 April 7, 1945
Forest Preserve District of Cook County
Clayton F. Smith, President
Roberts Mann, Superintendent of Conservation

****:GOOD PEOPLE DO NOT PICK WILDFLOWERS

The early spring wildflowers are now carpeting the woods in the forest 
preserves, a month sooner than usual. Most of them were not hurt by the 
frosts this week. If you enjoy them, and if you wish to enjoy them year 
after year-- DO NOT PICK THEM.

There are three reasons why the person who really enjoys wildflowers, 
or who has good outdoor manners, will not pick them. In the first place, 
being wild, they are different from flowers grown in gardens or florists' 
greenhouses. Most of them will be sadly drooping and wilted before 
you get them home; they will not revive when placed in water, and you 
will throw them away.

In the second place, most of the plants die after the flower is picked. 
Only the trained botanist knows which ones may be gathered without 
destroying the plants which produce them. They also are difficult to dig 
up and transplant. Each kind of wildflower must have certain conditions 
of soil, moisture, shade or sun, protection from wind, insects, etc. If you 
want wildflowers around your home, and have the right conditions, send 
to one of the several companies which can furnish you seed. Do not try 
to dig them up from the woods.

The third reason is that wildflowers are more beautiful in the woods 
than in any vase. Leave them there for other people to enjoy as you 
enjoyed them. Then you can enjoy them again next year.