Restoring meadows: a season of seed harvesting and sowing  

Seed harvesting season has now finished, bringing both challenges and rewards. Using a seed harvesting machine pulled by a quad bike, we collected seeds from wildflower meadows on hot, dry days—the perfect conditions for this work. Although the yield was lower than usual, we managed to gather enough to support our restoration projects.  

With the seeds in hand, we've been busy sowing them at various sites across Cheshire. We collaborate with farmers who rotovate the ground, allowing the seeds to reach the soil and begin to grow. Next, we use our seed-sowing machine, driving in a spiral pattern to ensure even coverage across the entire site. Once this is done, the farmer returns to roll the seeds into the soil, which improves germination rates and reduces the likelihood of birds eating them. These new meadows will take about five years to fully establish, but once they do, they’ll provide vital food and shelter for a wide range of pollinator species.   

Plug planting with staff and volunteers  

One of the highlights has been working alongside our dedicated staff and volunteers to plug plant thousands of native meadow species across various sites in Cheshire. Plug planting helps reintroduce specific meadow species that are missing from a site. These plants, grown at our Bickley Hall Farm nursery, are now part of our mission to create vibrant meadows that offer essential resources for pollinators.  

Hand-collecting seeds for nursery growth  

In addition to mechanical harvesting, we’ve been hand-collecting seeds to grow in the nursery. This more detailed process ensures we have a steady supply of local, native plants for future restoration projects. Our Bickley Hall Farm nursery plays a key role in ensuring we can carefully grow species that are well-suited to Cheshire’s and surrounding counties’ habitats, supporting the region’s long-term conservation efforts.   

Looking ahead: tree planting season  

As winter approaches, we’re gearing up for tree planting season, one of the most exciting times of the year. During this time, we plant native trees that will provide long-term benefits to wildlife and the environment, such as absorbing carbon dioxide, improving air quality, and creating vital habitats for birds, insects, and mammals. Each tree we plant helps to combat climate change while supporting biodiversity in Cheshire’s woodlands.  

Reserve management: essential winter work  

Winter is the perfect time for reserve management, as most species don’t breed during this period, minimising disturbance to wildlife. At Cheshire Wildlife Trust, we carry out important tasks like habitat restoration, scrub clearance, and maintaining the ecological balance of our reserves. One example is the removal of invasive birch trees from areas like Danes Moss. Birch can quickly take over sensitive habitats like peatlands, so managing their spread is crucial for preserving these ecosystems. Winter management ensures these habitats are maintained and ready to flourish again in the spring.  

Soil sampling: preparing for next year  

Finally, we’ve been conducting soil sampling at various sites to prepare for next year’s restoration projects. Healthy soil is the foundation of successful conservation work, and these samples will help us make informed decisions about planting and restoration strategies, ensuring that the habitats we create are as sustainable and thriving as possible.  

As I look back on the past few months of my traineeship, it's amazing to see how much we've accomplished in reviving Cheshire's habitats. From the rewarding (and sometimes challenging!) seed harvesting sessions to the hands-on work of planting with our incredible volunteers, each step feels like a win for nature. We’re not done yet, though! With tree planting season just around the corner and winter management work underway, there’s plenty more to do. But knowing that every action is bringing us closer to a healthier, more vibrant environment makes it all worthwhile. I can’t wait to see these meadows and woodlands come to life in the seasons to come. 

Emily's passion and commitment have helped us make significant strides in our nature recovery goals and we're excited to see the continued impact of her work.
Thanks to one of our longstanding members whose generous donation is supporting this traineeship.

If you would like to consider supporting a future trainee, please contact Jo Darlington on jdarlington@cheshirewt.org.uk