Long Range Weather Forecast
Overcast with a light breeze.
Objectives
We plan once again to operate two separate work parties this month, depending on available volunteer resources
Nature Reserve Maintenance Group
Leader: Andrew Beattie
Andrew and Chris are in the process of drawing up a schedule of work, and priorities, for the Park Field that will include traditional ‘scrub-bashing’ tasks of cutting back overgrown paths, strimming grass edges, pruning, tree management and hedge layering.
Task allocation will very often depend on the weather and the condition of the ground underfoot. However, scrub-bashing in the Park Field is expected to continue until April/May 2020 when birds begin to start nesting.
The Ancient Track (Ghylls Hill) which is in regular public use and provides the main access point to the Nature Reserve from the Codicote Road entrance, is likely to be a regular assignment.
The Fernery Gardening Group
Leader: Harry Ward/John Roper
Andrew plans to complete a session of blowing of leaves, twigs and rubbish before the main work party gets active, and there are many areas needing attention.
Wild flowers.
Jenny reports that Black Nightshade is growing in the wild flowers on the North Bank, and docks and nettles are growing near the entrance and the compost heap,
Other maintenance on the North Bank will include cutting down Weld and Oxeye Daises.
Herbaceous beds
Sarah wants the orange calendula in the Full Stop bed to be dead-headed to encourage the growth of new flowers. Likewise the ensimums (purple shrubby plant on top of the grotto) and their flower spikes cut off.
Weeding and Watering
Despite the recent inclement weather, the ferns and the trees in the perimeter need watering.
Planting
Depending on conditions, we have some new ferns to be planted.
Graffiti
We have a few new attempts at impressionism that might need attention to remove them.
Meeting Place – both Work Parties
All volunteers should meet at the Fernery at 9.30 am where the leaders will allocate tasks and distribute tools as appropriate for the two working parties. Volunteers are asked to decide before arriving which of the two working parties they would like to join, as this helps the organisation.
How to find the Fernery
If you have not visited us before you will be made very welcome. Please read the directions to find us.
Bring a hot drink and refreshments with you, and wear strong boots or shoes and good quality gardening gloves. All tools will be provided.
On your first visit the Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (the Owners) require that you complete a personal details Form which will be retained by them for Public Liability Insurance purposes.
