Old Orchard Meadow

The meadow was sown between 1986 and 1989 and, during the summer months, there is a fine display of grasses and other wild flowers. Over 100 different species have been recorded and these in turn attract a host of insects. Plants include cowslip, meadow saxifrage (now very scarce in Essex), musk mallow, meadow buttercup, wild carrot, black knapweed, birdsfoot trefoil and oxeye daisy.

The meadow is managed in accordance with traditional methods. Sheep graze the field during the winter, until early April, when the wild flowers start to come through. At this stage the stock are removed from the field and do not return until after a late cut, varying between July and October.

The meadow cuttings are then put into compost bins allowing the vegetation to rot down forming a wonderful organic mulch. This is available to buy at the Centre during Open Days.