Wild herbs training for advanced users

The course focuses on the precise identification of plants using systematic identification keys, supplemented by an understanding of ecological relationships, advanced knowledge of plant constituents, and an in-depth exploration of woody plant identification. The aim is to be able to classify wild plants unambiguously, thereby laying the foundation for their safe and responsible use.

The herbal training takes place as an 8-day course in Berlin and is structured in modules. The sessions are spread across several face-to-face and online sessions, ensuring there is sufficient time for revision, consolidation and application. Parts of the course are recognised as ‘Bildungszeit’ or ‘Bildungsurlaub’ in selected federal states, making it attractive for working professionals too.

Target audience and recommended prior knowledge

The course requires a sound foundation of prior knowledge. Participants are expected to have a confident knowledge of common wild plants, as well as experience in using basic identification characteristics. Those without relevant prior experience are advised to complete a beginner’s or foundation seminar beforehand. Those with an advanced level of knowledge may skip individual preliminary stages and catch up on the material independently.

The course is particularly suitable for:

• advanced enthusiasts of wild herbs
• people with an interest in the natural sciences
• Participants who wish to significantly improve their confidence in identification
• People aiming to offer their own courses or guided tours in the future

Teaching approach

The herbal training programme follows a clearly structured learning approach: short, in-depth theory sessions alternate with extensive practical work in the field. The work is carried out predominantly directly on the plant and in a variety of habitats. Particular emphasis is placed on working with dichotomous identification keys, which enable precise identification down to species level.

Whilst beginners’ courses often rely on visual characteristics and illustrated guides, participants here learn an analytical approach: from family through genus to species. In addition, the sensible use of identification apps and AI is critically assessed.

Contents of the herb course

In-depth theory:

Classification into key plant families

Advanced identification characteristics and working with identification keys

Plant ecology and site analysis

Complex secondary plant compounds and their significance

Legal framework and safe use

Woody plant identification (summer and winter identification)

Practical work and field trips:

Intensive field identification work

Several half-day and full-day excursions

Application of ecological and systematic knowledge

Winter module on the identification of tree and shrub buds

Organisation and supervision

The course is led by biologist and author Manuel Larbig in collaboration with the Waldsamkeit team. All tutors have a background in the natural sciences and many years’ experience in teaching botany.

To ensure long-term learning success, annual, free online revision sessions are offered. In addition, all participants are given access to the digital learning platform, which includes lecture notes, presentations and supplementary materials.

Services and Qualification

The course fee includes:

A semi-professional identification guide

Pocket magnifying glass

Comprehensive printed course notes

Access to the learning platform

Free resit sessions

Printed certificate of completion

Recognition as educational leave (depending on the federal state)

Upon completion, participants will have gained an in-depth understanding of botany, a high level of confidence in plant identification and the ability to classify wild plants on a sound scientific basis.

Register online