Foliage gatheringThere is substantial demand for foliage for the cut flower trade, particularly in the Netherlands. Species with shiny, waxy leaves such as rhododendron, ivy and cherry laurel are particularly well suited for such purposes, as they tend to be longer-lasting. Ferns are also sometimes used in floral displays, as are the flowering (catkin-bearing) branches of hazel and willow. Wreath-makers use substantial quantities of conifer branches, particularly noble fir. Holly is gathered in the winter for Christmas sales. Foliage collecting contributes to the seasonal activities of Scotland's commercial NTFP collectors. The foliage is sold on to buyers such as McPhersons Atlantic, who export it to the Netherlands in large quantities. The most significant source of foliage in Scotland is Rhododendron ponticum, a non-native invasive species that has taken over substantial patches of woodland in the west of the country. MacPhersons Atlantic export about 200,000 stems every week during the harvesting season (roughly August to January), and collectors bring in about 80p for each 20 shoots gathered. Coppicing can increase the foliage yield of this species, the regrowth being ready for harvesting about 18 months after cutting. This species, however, is often the target of conservationists, who go to great lengths to try to exterminate it. |