As you may remember, the yellow rattle wildflower seed, that the Merley Community raised £500 for in 2020, was sown at the Sopwith meadow area in October 2021 by BCP Council (see map of the approx. areas supplied by BCP). Photo credit: BCP Council
Well, the great news is it's worked! A good germination of yellow rattle can be see in these areas (currently only very small but watch this space). Not only in Sopwith Crescent but they have also started to germinate on the grassy bank by the zipline area at Selkirk Close. We were lucky enough to be offered an extra bonus packet from the Allington Hillbillies in Bridport, where the seeds were purchased originally.
Over time, other species will follow, as the yellow rattle weakens the grass and makes way for the establishment of a better variety of wild flowers.
Hopefully we can collect our own seed this year and get a little more on a few other areas around Merley, which have been agreed to be left to grow by the Council and then cut and collected.
For more information on yellow rattle and how it gets the name the 'meadow maker' click here go to the Plantlife link.
THANK YOU again to...
all the residents that contributed to the money raised, this couldn't have happened without you!
the wonderful group in Bridport where the seeds were purchased, Allington Hillbillies, who have been very kind and supportive.