Seeds from ancient trees and shrubs harvested in Maasheggen

Staatsbosbeheer this fall collects seeds and berries from the oldest, wild trees and shrubs in the Maasheggen. These species, such as field maple, hawthorn, common ash, blackthorn and dog rose, occur naturally in UNESCO site The Maasheggen and are sometimes 100 to 200 years old.

Farmers have maintained wild trees and shrubs for centuries in the form of the familiar hedgerows. By species, the hedgerows harbor a wealth of genetic variation, stored in the numerous berries and seeds. Since 2000, these seeds have been picked by hand every year; between late August and November. Harvesting takes place at different locations.

From seed to tree

The seeds and berries travel a long way after picking before arriving at their final destination. First, they are transported to Staatsbosbeheer 's work shed in Dronten. This is where the National Genebank Autochthonous Trees and Shrubs is located. The seeds are cleaned, after which they are delivered to forest and hedge plant growers in Zundert and Rijsbergen. Depending on final use, Staatsbosbeheer (or an external buyer) replants the shrubs and trees to their final location after 1 to a maximum of 3 years. The planting material is mainly used in the Netherlands. Last spring another 3 km of hedges were planted in the Maasheggen, for restoration of the hedge landscape.

Maasheggen source area

For Staatsbosbeheer, the Maasheggen is one of the most important harvest sites of wild trees and shrubs in the country. In the hedges of this old cultural landscape, many trees and shrubs are found that naturally belong here. Originally, the hedges had a livestock-keeping function and were mostly maintained as braid hedges. In part, the wood was also used for baking ovens or making tools. Through regular trimming ("rejuvenation") of these hedges, the trees and shrubs could reach ages of 100 to 200 years. Because of the clayey soil, the drought of the past three years, has had less of a hold on nature at Maasheggen. In fact, this year has been a very good berry year. Everything was right; from pollination to fruit ripening.

More information: https: //www.staatsbosbeheer.nl/over-staatsbosbeheer/dossiers/zaden-en-plantmateriaal/visie-en-beleid