Rarities that need a helping hand


I was delighted to come across this ploughed strip of land at Fames Rough, Chipstead this morning. The Downlands Project (if it was they) are to be congratulated for undertaking this task, to ensure that we can enjoy another year of flowering Ground Pine (below) and Cut-leaved Germander. Both species have a long history at the site, but have periodically 'disappeared' due to lack of ground disturbance, which they both need as they are poor competitors, although their seed can remain buried (and viable) for many years. The strip measures approximately 100 x 5 meters. I will return throughout the summer with some anticipation.

Ground Pine - picture taken on the North Downs several years ago

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