This wood in Rotherfield Greys was once an open beechwood carpeted with bluebells. It has become dark over time with holly trees, many grown tall and spindly in search of the light amongst the lower-growing bushes. Vestiges of the bluebells can be seen along the public footpath and in the few remaining clear spaces, so our task is to encourage them to reappear by cutting down all the holly excepting some specimen trees.
This was our second visit to Parson’s Wood, with 14 volunteers who broadened a clearing at the top end of the site. By the end some magnificent beech trees had been made visible, and we are looking forward to our future visits. The size of the holly problem means we shall be working there for some time to come. We cut away the side growth from the larger felled trees and made long logs to mark the sides of the public footpath. No fire trailer on this occasion, but we plan to reduce the large piles of resulting brash by burning in the autumn.
Gingerbread at coffee break made by Diane.
Julia, 11/5/2014
