In 2023 Russborough signed up to the Farm Plan with the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Now in year two, we are starting to see the fruits of our labour as we move from an intensive regime of grazing and silage production to a species rich grassland and mown meadow.
One of the main objectives of the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme is to trial novel approaches to farming for the environment, to safeguard particular sites, habitats and species, and to work towards meeting conservation measures required under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives.
By eliminating the use of fertilisers, the estate is promoting the natural resurgence of wildflowers, which in turn supports a richer biodiversity. This change has led to the return of various species of insects and birds, creating a thriving ecosystem. The presence of these wildflowers not only enhances the visual beauty of the landscape but also provides vital habitats and food sources for wildlife.
The scheme contributes as a significant part of Ireland’s wider efforts through agri-environmental schemes to address biodiversity loss.
Efforts are being made to control the more thuggish growth, in particular the ragwort which we are pulling by hand,or treating with herbicide. This initiative marks an important milestone in the foundation’s goal of improving biodiversity at Russborough and creating a wildlife friendly environment.
“Weed” is a vague term. It comes from the Old English weod and means a plant, a grass, a herb or a tree – anything that grows abundantly around us. That is to say, a plant that exploits our growing conditions, be that in an agricultural field, a back garden, a pavement edge or a park. Weeds are plants, often wildflowers – until they come a little too close and take advantage. Then they are weeds.
Some of our recent finds
Of course, weeds need to be managed but even these noxious weeds can be valuable. Many of these weeds are excellent for the environment because they feed others. Their flowers feed many insects; their leaves feed caterpillars, aphids and other soft-bodied things that in turn are the feed for other insects, birds and mammals. Above we have bees, beetles and the caterpillars of the cinnabar moth feasting on the flowers and stems in the Parklands. Even the much maligned nettle is the perfect weed for creating a butterfly haven and supports more than 40 species of insects.
So while you may wonder, as you stroll the Parklands, why things seem a little wilder, we've learned to love our weeds... Their rise and fall are part of the rhythm of gardening.