Spring is on the way

Signs of a change in the seasons are on the way. Early spring flowers such snowdrops will have started to appear around Pound Lane pond and there may even be some early daffodils getting ready to flower. You will see birds checking out nesting sites and on a warm day insects will be starting to come out of hibernation but winter isn’t over yet…….snow and harsh frosts are very possible so wildlife still needs those piles of leaves and untidy places to shelter in during spells of bad weather at this time of year.

Yaxley Countryside Volunteers are busy this month with essential work in the Community Orchard. This mostly involves the pruning of fruit trees such as the apples, pears and quinces. Stoned fruit such as plums are prone to diseases if they are pruned at this time so they will be left till the summer. The aim of pruning is to remove any diseased or damaged branches and to prevent future issues such as branches starting to rub against each other which can open up the bark and allow diseases in. We have also found evidence of damage by deer on the trunks of some trees so have put guards around those trees – this should prevent further problems and it is good to know that local wildlife is visiting the orchard.

YCV is working with the Parish Council to enhance biodiversity in the Recreation ground and you will see that we are attempting to restore sections of ancient hedgerow near the skate ramps. These lengths of hedge date back over 150 years and are remnants of old field boundaries. The aim is to fill in some gaps and to introduce a wider range of native hedgerow plants. We have also planted more bulbs along the bank near the play area and in the orchard so look out for the first signs of some spring colour.

If you would like to help us please do get in touch:

secretary@ ycv.org