The annual contest has begun. The nettles, brambles and other invasive plants are making their bid to dominate the ground under the trees. Although these plants are important contributors to the biodiversity and habitat of the wood, they also crowd out other plants such as bluebells. Nettles have quickly established in areas we have coppiced over the last two winters with the help of Duke of Edinburgh volunteers.
Despite the hot weather, our regular volunteers have been in their long sleeves and long trousers tackling the nettles with power strimmers, slashing tools and the beast that is our Billy Goat Mower. Often the growth is head-high. Some courageous volunteers wear a T-Shirt and accept the stings and scratches!
The helmet, visor and harness adds to the warming affect. Fortunately we always earn a coffee-break mid-session. It very satisfying that in a short time an area can be cleared – even if we know we will do it all over again next year. For now, there is a clear view from the practice area to the trees again.
