Bringing wildflowers back to Mickleton

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The adoption of a few basic principles can significantly improve the biodiversity of our verges. There are nearly 500,000 kilometres of rural road verge in the UK. This is equal to half of our remaining flower-rich grasslands and meadows: their potential is enormous. Over 700 species of wild flower grow on the UK’s road verges – nearly 45% of our total flora. And where wild flowers lead, wildlife follows -a multitude of bees, butterflies, birds and bugs - all enjoyed by 23 million road commuters.

Priorities for safety and access, along with budget constraints and difficulties with the collection of litter and grass clippings can mean that enhancing their wildlife value is often low on the list. But we believe that the adoption of a few basic principles will improve our verges for nature, bringing benefits for wildlife, for us and for future generations. 

We already have two wildflower areas in the 3Bs Community Wildlife Garden behind the Methodist Church and the photo above shows the same mix of wildflower annuals we are using in full bloom in 2018. 

During April as the weather improves and we complete the preparation, some of our verges and public spaces in Mickleton will also be seeded with native wildflowers. Packets of wildflower seeds are being prepared for Mickleton School as part of a broader educational programme to help make youngsters more aware of the importance of caring for our wildlife heritage; similar packs will be available for planting in private gardens.

 
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