Heather Thickets of Polissia Disappearing Due to Lack of Care

In Polissia, heather is currently blooming — a low-growing evergreen shrub with numerous small purple flowers, after which the first month of autumn is named.

This is reported by AgroReview

In the bright pine forests of Polissia, one can still see patches of heather, but the most stunning views of this plant are found where it forms dense thickets in open spaces and forest clearings. Such places are referred to as heather thickets or heather wastelands.

Reasons for the Disappearance of Heather Thickets

Andrii Sahaidak, the founder of the natural center “Mizhrichynska Pushcha,” points out a concerning trend — the area of heather thickets is gradually decreasing. The main reason for this is the lack of proper care: heather thickets require regular grazing of livestock and periodic low-intensity fires. These factors are essential for preserving open landscapes suitable for the existence of heather.

“Currently, the area of heather thickets is steadily shrinking. Heather thickets require quite specific care — grazing livestock and regular low-intensity fires. Without such management, heather thickets disappear,” emphasizes Andrii Sahaidak.

Heather Landscapes Can Still Be Seen

According to Andrii Sahaidak, several heather thickets still remain in the vicinity of the natural center “Mizhrichynska Pushcha.” While the heather is in bloom, it is worth taking the opportunity to admire these unique colorful landscapes, as they may disappear completely due to natural changes and the lack of traditional care.