A Day for Novohradky: Searching for Lupines at Pohoří

16. May 2026

Sobota 16.5. 2026 | 9:30–16:00

Pohoří na Šumavě 

The Pilgerland – Pilgrimage Landscape project also features events that offer an experience of the land not only through art but also through physical labor. It allows one to enter the landscape as a pilgrim, and simultaneously as a guardian who cares for these sacred sites.

Despite its beautiful purple flowers, the large-leaved lupine is an unwanted invasive species in the Czech countryside. One of the areas where it is rapidly spreading is the surroundings of Pohoří na Šumavě.

Therefore, on May 16th, in collaboration with the Czech-Austrian Interreg project "Plants Along the Border" and the Nature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic (AOPK ČR), we are organizing a gathering to clear the area of lupine. During the day, there will also be an opportunity to visit sites of rare plant species and get a behind-the-scenes look at a dyeing experiment, where pigment from the lupine is used to color sheep's wool.

Come lend a hand and connect caring for the land with a deeper understanding of it!

PROGRAM 

  • Meeting Point: 9:30 AM at the church in Pohoří na Šumavě (please use the nearby parking lot; we encourage using shared transport if possible).

  • Lupine removal: Digging out lupines and scouting for new growth in the surrounding area.

  • Dyeing workshop with Michaela Casková and Michaela Vlčková: Dyeing sheep's wool using pigments derived from lupine.

  • Lunch: Please bring your own supplies for a campfire cookout (small refreshments will also be provided).

  • Afternoon Botanical Walk: Discovering the rare flora of the Novohradské Mountains with botanical guides Jana Janáková, Magdalena Lučanová, and Milan Kotilínek.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

What to bring: According to your means – work clothes and tools (gloves, spade, entrenching tool or small shovel, bucket, rake), food and drinks, picnic blanket.

Family-friendly: The event is suitable for families with children.

German speakers welcome: German-speaking residents are also warmly invited.

RSVP: We would appreciate it if you could let us know you are coming at mlucanova@jcu.cz.

Admission: Participation is free of charge.

Weather Policy: The event will only be canceled in case of heavy rain.