Gardening and forest management tips for autumn

As autumn approaches, several key practices for gardening and forest management are highlighted to ensure plant health and legal compliance.

In gardening, experts advise against pruning spring-flowering shrubs like Forsythia in autumn, as this removes future flower buds. Instead, pruning should occur immediately after flowering in spring. For potted plants, removing saucers and elevating pots using materials like cork can prevent root rot caused by stagnant water and frost.

Regarding waste management, burning fallen leaves is prohibited in France under the Environmental Code, with fines reaching 450 euros. Instead, leaves can be used to protect soil and support biodiversity. For fruit trees, the use of Bordeaux mixture should be selective rather than routine to avoid unnecessary copper accumulation in the soil.

In the forest, specifically in the Bercé forest, the Office National des Forêts (ONF) reminds mushroom pickers that collection is limited to family consumption. Pickers must not exceed 5 liters per person; exceeding 10 liters is considered a criminal offense punishable by fines and potential imprisonment.