The annual 'Blue Heart' verge survey was carried out on Friday 14th June by David Nicholls from NatureSpot. The verge is located on Hunts Lane, in between the cemetery car park and the mini roundabout near the Bellway estate entrance.
The verge has been extended this year (a recommendation from last year) which has added about 50% in length.
Some key takeaways from the survey:
"It is understood that two packets of meadow seed were scattered on the verge in the Autumn of 2023, one was of cornfield annuals and the other a perennial wildflower mix. From this seed, the only plant that appears to have established is Corncockle, which has grown in an extensive stand along the western half of the verge, rather swamping much of the original plant diversity".
"The 2024 survey recorded 41 plant species in the verge and hedge. Of these, five are notable as indicator species when Local Wildlife Sites are being designated: Meadow Buttercup, Bulbous Buttercup, Lady’s smock, Oxeye Daisy and Yellow Rattle. The verge has been given an overall quality score of 19 from 13 different wildflower and grass species which are typical of quality meadow grassland, indicating that it has the basis to become a very good, and plant diverse, habitat".
"Any further seed sowing should be avoided, especially of annual plants as these are not found in established meadow grassland. The Corncockle currently growing in numbers will diminish next year and will probably disappear within a couple of years. It is possible that some of the sown perennial seeds sown last year will produce flowering plants next year as they often require two years to fully establish".
"If possible, a further expansion of the verge (or other area) should be considered. Even reducing the mowing frequency will bring valuable wildlife benefits. Many species can flower in a relatively short time so a gap of 6-8 weeks between cuts would be very helpful in supporting local wildlife".
If you would like to see the full survey including a full list of species identified this year, please see here: https://www.naturespot.org.uk/Desford_Hunts_Lane_verge
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