MEADOWS & SET-ASIDES
In 2009, following the discovery of species-rich lowland grassland in Eastfield Park, the whole park was designated a Local Wildlife Site. However, because of frequent mowing, wildflowers had little chance of flowering and producing seeds. The Friends of Eastfield Park obtained permission to establish 'set-asides' that were not mowed until autumn, giving wildflowers the chance to reach maturity. This also provided an improved habitat for other wildlife. The first set-aside was established in 2016 and the sceond in 2018. Set-asides are mowed in September or October and, if volunteers are available, raked to remove cut vegetation (or some of it). This reduces soil fertility and favours wildflowers over grasses. No plant are added or removed fron set-asides; the semi-natural wildflower flora is allowed to develop naturally.
The so-called 'meadows' are different. Wildflowers are added and some plants are removed at the discretion of the volunteers managing the meadows. Yellow Rattle is semi-parasitic on grasses and is added to suppress their growth. Other plants are added to benefit wildlife and some because they are attractive to visitors. The first meadow was created near Eleonore House in 2017. It was originally a semi-circular area developed from a wildflower border along the north-facing metal fence. It was later extended to the area it covers today. Like the set-asides, it is not cut until September or October but it is strimmed rather than mowed. This is mainly done to protect small animals living in the meadow, but it also gives a better opportunity to cut different parts of the meadow to different degrees, thus creating a mosic of habitats.
The Platinum Jubilee Meadow was formed in 2022. The meadow is partly mowed and partly strimmed. Seeds, bulbs, small plug plants and a few larger plants, have been added to accelerate its development.
