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Date: | Tue, 15 Aug 2023 18:08:47 +0100 |
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A couple of comments.
Rather surprised by the downbeat article coming from University of Sussex. I would have said that there is now a growing awareness of the value of wild flowers. Plenty of programmes on TV (including gardening programmes), 'No mow May' was promoted to encourage people not to cut lawns, many community projects to plant wild flower areas, some councils replacing grass verges with wild flowers and so on.
I have mixed feelings about ivy - wonderful late pollen (cash in the bank!) - but hard crystallised honey is useless for winter feed and undoubtedly contributes to winter losses. And it tastes awful.
Ragwort is a different matter. Poisonous to livestock, poisonous if you handle it without gloves - I have actually seen it in wildflower areas designed for young children! - and it produces the most vile tasting honey that lingers in the mouth.
Most landowners do clear it - as they are required to do under the Weeds Act 1959 (which does not seem to be enforced), but most ragwort is seen on roadside verges - the responsibility of the Highways Authority who do nothing. Not surprising I guess as they do not have enough money to keep the roads in good repair, let alone deal with weeds.
Best wishes
Peter
52°14'44.44"N, 1°50'35"W
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