Wildpicking - a special method of wild-harvesting
A special method of wild-harvesting where we never pick the whole plant but only few leaves or flowers from one – ensuring that every plant continues to grow and develop undisturbed.
The Story of Wildpicking…
June is here. The longest day of the year is approaching. There have been some rainy days, but for the past week, it’s been sweltering heat. Tomorrow is the day to head up to Uchka mountain to gather tall mallow and yarrow. On Uchka, these herbs release more intense scents and aromas, influenced by the sea's salt and winds.
Lightning and Snakes, But… The Harvest Must Go On
It’s crucial to prepare everything needed for safe herb harvesting and preservation before setting out. Essential “helpers” are the walking stick and a raincoat. The stick - for snakes, and the raincoat for summer storms. Thick pants and sturdy boots are also a must, despite the 32°C heat, and the fact that picking is done between 1 and 5 PM.
Although this is the hottest time of the day, it is precisely when the sun is at its peak, and due to the high temperature and solar intensity, the herbs contain the highest concentration of healing compounds. A wide-brimmed hat and white shirt are also essential, providing protection from the sun and the swarms of insects that might be a bit disturbed by our presence. And the lightning that loves the rocky terrain? Only the hope that it won’t appear offers some protection.
Just the Thought of Harvesting is Meditation
Wildpicking is both demanding and meditative. The rocks, bushes, and trees that serve as a compass, the trails, scents, and scenes of untouched nature… are all part of what awaits those who venture into wildpicking. And for those who have already tried it, even the thought of wildpicking itself becomes a meditation.
Only Individual Flowers and Leaves Are Picked
Upon arrival on Uchka, the stick is put to immediate use. Vibrations alert the snakes to guests on their territory. Uchka is teeming with wild herbs. When small, not-yet-mature plants are spotted, they are left untouched. The search continues for plants whose picking won’t disrupt nature’s harmony. Even when a rich habitat of “mature” plants is found, only few flowers and leaves are gathered from one to ensure each plant can continue growing undisturbed.
Harvesting With Care and Gentleness
Wild herbs and flowers require a gentle touch. The harvest is done with both hands: one hand carefully holds the flower in the palm, while the stem is grasped between the index and middle finger. Then, with the other hand, the tip of the scissors gently snips it, and it’s slowly placed in a cloth bag.
Thanking the Herbs… with a Few Drops of Water
Each herb, bush, or tuft from which a flower or leaf is picked is carefully chosen, delicately harvested, and will work wonders for humans. They deserve gratitude - a few drops of water, which can truly be life-giving on the rocky terrain. The peace and harmony that can be experienced in nature during wildpicking are deeply powerful for everyone who practices it.
Everything That Doesn’t Go into Products Returns to Nature
Part of the wild-harvested herbs is placed in jars that evening to make macerates. Some are infused in grape seed oil sourced from organic vineyards in Istria, while others are soaked in cold-pressed rosehip and hazelnut oils. The rest of the herbs are distilled into hydrolates. The hydrolate base is made with water from Uchka, drawn from the Joseph II fountain in Vela Uchka. Finally, everything left over after maceration and distillation is composted and returned to nature.
UCHKA wildpicking locations
