Nothing beautifies a space like a vase of fresh flowers, be it glossy springtime tulips or late-summer dahlias in jewel-like hues. However, buying cut blooms can be expensive, and growing them at home takes time and effort, which some of us simply can't spare.
If you happen to pass some flowers in a neighboring property, it can be tempting to nab a few stems. This is particularly the case if there are plenty, or for cut-and-come again types (sweet peas, for instance). But, while it may seem innocent enough, picking flowers from someone else's yard can have its risks, similar to picking fruit from a neighbor's tree. After all, it's not your property, and aside from legal implications, it could lead to uncomfortable disputes and upset.
Below, an etiquette consultant, a legal professional, and the founder of a floral and event design company share their insights on the matter. You'll also find ideas on where to source fresh flowers from instead.
Why you should refrain from picking someone else's blooms
Home-grown flowers can make a gorgeous bouquet, but always ask permission before you pick
Jo Hayes, an etiquette expert, says picking flowers from someone else’s yard is 'supremely poor manners'. Plus, it tends to be illegal. 'The flowers are the property of the property owner. As such, brazenly helping yourself to your neighbor’s peonies, geraniums, or asters is tantamount to personal theft,' she says.
While the relative minor weight of this offence may be classed as a misdemeanour rather than a felony, theft is theft, Jo continues to points out. It is also likely a trespass, as Eric Teusink, managing partner at law firm Williams Teusink adds, though whether any reputable lawyer is going to try and bring that claim is another matter.
'In Georgia, civil trespass is an intentional tort. Intentional torts bring with them the possibility of punitive damages. But, except in an exceptionally egregious situation, I don't see that happening,' he says. 'As always, state laws differ, and I would assume they are slightly different in each case.'
'Let us remember, even if something is technically "legal", it doesn’t necessarily make it right,' says Jo. 'Gardeners spend a huge amount of time, energy, love, and finances creating an oasis they can enjoy,' she explains, adding that it's unfair and disrespectful to effectively steal their handiwork.
Even plucking one or two stems can cause conflict
Leneille Moon, owner of floral and event design company Special Event Factory, agrees that picking from someone else's yard without permission is a no-go.
While she notes that foraging is a common practice in her industry, whether it’s pampas grass or magnolia leaves, there’s a fine line between inspiration and intrusion. 'Respect for others’ property and the environment is just as important as the beauty we create,' she says.
If you really want to snip some blooms, always ask first – Jo says that most garden owners would be thrilled to hear that you admire their flowers so much and, most likely, would say yes.
You may strike up a wonderful conversation with the property owner about gardening and form a new neighborhood connection, she adds.
Jo is an international consultant on all things etiquette, manners and speech. She is regularly featured in the international news and media, providing expert advice on a range of etiquette, protocol, and lifestyle topics.
Eric Teusink is the founding and managing partner of Williams Teusink, LLC, a firm specializing in real estate and business law. He handles transactional matters and litigation, providing comprehensive legal support on various issues.
Leneille gained a BA in Public Relations at Georgia State University as an event planner over 15 years ago and transitioned to a floral event designer in 2017 after helping so many brides bring their Pinterest boards to life. She now owns Special Event Factory, a floral and event design company based in Atlanta, Georgia.
FAQs
What can happen to you if you pick flowers from someone else's yard?
Even if you don't run into trouble with the law, unauthorized picking can still lead to undesirable outcomes that make it simply not worth it. As Eric points out, the most likely consequences are poor relations with the neighbors from whose garden you picked the flowers – 'and maybe public shaming if they caught you on the Ring camera.'
Where can you pick flowers from instead?
Bear in mind that picking wildflowers can be illegal, depending on where you are. Always research local laws first.
Perhaps the best way to pick armfuls of blooms is to grow your own cutting patch. Seed packets are generally affordable: this cut-and-come-again zinnia mix from Burpee is under $7, for instance. And you really don't need much kit to get started – you can even use recycled materials instead of plastic seed trays, such as old egg boxes and the cardboard tubes from toilet rolls. If you don't have a sunny outdoor space at home, consider registering for a local allotment patch.
No time, or space, for green-fingered endeavors? Picking your own bouquet from a flower farm can be a wonderful way to get creative and surround yourself with beautiful, seasonal blooms.
Knowing what's legal and what's not can give you peace of mind when tending to your plot and prevent any potential trouble – be it fines or neighborly disputes. For more advice, take a look at our guides on whether it's illegal to harvest rainwater or have a fire in your backyard. Or, if you live in California, it's worth knowing which plants are illegal to grow.
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