Wildflower meadows at a South Lakeland nature reserve were given a boost by a group of enthusiastic local volunteers, who have planted 6,500 wildflower plants in four meadows.
Over four days, 26 volunteers planted important meadow species at Hay Bridge Nature Reserve, near Bouth, such as great burnet, wood crane’s-bill and lady’s mantle.
Planting them in autumn allows time for the roots to establish over winter, giving them a greater chance of competing with the existing layers of grass in spring. The fields will then be managed as traditional hay meadows, with the late summer hay-cut allowing the flowers to set their seeds and increase in number and diversity over time.
Children from local schools helped with the wildflower planting and also took part in wildflower workshops.
Christa Nelson, Grassland Conservation Officer at Cumbria Wildlife Trust, said: “It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm of the volunteers and great that children also took part in the project. We hope this will increase their appreciation, enjoyment and understanding of hay meadows.”
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