Preventing hybridisation to protect natural resources

Some farming enterprises, such as wild harvesting, require particular care to ensure long-term sustainability and protect the environment.

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Wildflowers and thatch harvesting are established industries in areas such as the Cape Floristic Region. If you are involved in these activities, you can help to ensure their sustainability by managing these resources carefully and responsibly. There are a number of ways to do this.

First, avoid introducing extralimital species and cultivars or hybrids (those that historically did not occur in the area) into natural vegetation. Plants have evolved mechanisms to help prevent hybridisation with species that occur nearby, but not those that are naturally geographically separate. Proteaceae and Ericaceae for example, hybridise easily, so take the necessary precautions. Ensure that wildflower orchards are pollinator-proof or at least established away from natural vegetation; genetic contamination of wild populations is a serious threat.

Manage the vegetation for biodiversity rather than for the benefit of currently commercially popular species. The economic benefits are greater and you will also be better positioned to deal with any changes in consumer preferences.

HARVESTING CYCLE

Wild harvesting of dekriet (Thamnocortus insignis) and wyfieriet (T. erectus) is an established industry with many farmers relying on this resource to augment cash flow.

Use only existing stands of restios. Do not brush cut natural vegetation to produce pure stands. Consider establishing dekriet