NATIVE WILDFLOWER VERGES
We established the first native wildflower verge in Warndon Villages, Worcester, UK in the spring of 2020 in collaboration with Warndon Parish and Worcester City Councils. Over 30 different species of wild flowers and other plants have been observed on and around the verge.
Councillor Andy Roberts visiting the site on Dugdale Drive said, “The VEG is a wonderful initiative. It was set up before the current crisis, but it captures the current mood of those who want to do more for the community and understand the curative powers of our natural environment.”
Paul Snookes, cofounder of The VEG, explained, “There is ample evidence of the physical and mental health benefits of urban nature. The flowers and grasses also attract butterflies, bees, pollinators and other insects which in turn helps the local bird, bat and mammal populations to thrive. We hope for many more sites like this in the future.”
In early August 2020, we are pleased to report that Worcester City Council cut and collected the native wildflowers on the Dugdale Drive verge in Worcester. This regime replicates the way meadows were managed for many generations and should result in the wildflowers flourishing for many years to come.
You are no doubt familiar with colourful wildflower displays in your town or city. These are often non-native annual species that cheer us all up and attract pollinators for the pollen and nectar only. In contrast our less showy native wildflowers come back every year and support the full life cycle of many of our native butterflies and other insects.
See us in Worcester News.
The WEG holds volunteer events twice a month and can be found on social media, or alternatively contact us at info@theweg.org for further information.
Thank you for sharing this great initiative. A few years ago I would have tutted at "untidy" verges. I now realise that even nettles and other not so pretty wildflowers have an important place in this world. They can be vital for caterpillars and other insects. Then the birds come to find food as well. Without caterpillar food plants we will have no beautiful moths and butterflies.
Susan Seear