Sunday Workday at Coed Ty Llwyd: Tackling Invasive Species

On Sunday, after waiting for the rain to pass, we had perfect weather for another productive workday at Coed Ty Llwyd.

Our main focus was the large stand of cotoneaster to the south of the main track.

Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster, a common garden variety, can easily escape into woodlands where it quickly takes over, overshading the ground and outcompeting native species. Thanks to the hard work of our volunteers, we cleared a significant area.

To help the ground recover, we’ve built a dead hedge barrier out of brash and mud and sticks. If we keep this area undisturbed from boots and paws we can allow the natural seed bank (dormant in the soil) to bring forth any native species that may emerge.

We also made progress on the ongoing task of reducing the cherry laurel to the north of the track including the dropping of a very large cherry laurel tree.

This is another garden variety that can quickly overtake a woodland like this. A big problem is the spreading of viable seeds by birds from nearby gardens. This is a major conservation project that will take many more workdays and will probably always be a task to deal with as new seedlings pop up.

We will continue to reduce the biomass, decrease shading, and create the conditions for native plants to thrive in the newly opened spaces.

As part of our efforts, we’ve been creating dead hedge barriers to protect these areas and provide much-needed habitat for invertebrates and small mammals.

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to lend a hand—we had a great time and made a real impact!

If you would like to be a part of the management work at this fantastic wood- Join the Friends of Coed Ty Llwyd facebook group for updates.