On the verge of something big…

Rymans Crescent biodiversity boost

This November we’ve really enjoyed working with Soha (South Oxfordshire Housing Association) at Rymans Crescent in East Hagbourne to create 3 long beds of wildflower turf.  These are set back from the road but still visible to residents, drivers and passers-by.  They will also be visible to pollinators searching for food! The turf contains more than 30 species of wildflower. They should flower from spring to late summer, providing plenty of nectar across the growing season. Pollinators (along with the majority insects) are struggling due to climate change and other human-led changes to habitat and food sources. Providing more than 50 metres of wildflower turf is a great way to start supporting biodiversity at Rymans Crescent! 

Recyling materials and habitat enhancement

The lifted turf was reused for another Soha project and some left onsite to provide a turf stack for wildlife. More habitat was created with the larger stones, making a rock pile.

Behind the wildflowers the grass will be left to grow longer, providing more habitat for insects as well as food opportunities for birds and mammals.

Inspiring others

We hope the beauty of the flowers inspires all who live near, and all who pass by, to sow or plant wildflowers. Or just allow grass to grow longer and see what comes up!

Saving costs and lower emissions

For residents of the Crescent, as well as wildflowers to enjoy, there will be less mowing on the site as grass is allowed to grow longer.

More home for nature, less emissions and the health benefits of wildflowers and nature in general – what’s not to like?!

Huge thanks to Soha and all our fantastic volunteers for making it happen! Looking forward to next Spring already! To us, this is a great model to roll out (literally!) far and wide!!

ps thanks to Paul Neale and Felicity Topping for the photos.