Traditional methods are revitalizing the natural world in Kent.
Scotney Castle, near Lamberhurst, is owned by the National Trust and has introduced horses as an essential part of its mowing operations to promote the growth of wildflower meadows throughout its estate.
The Oakwood Clydesdale horses, Percy and Frank, are utilized because they inflict less damage on the soil and wildlife when removing vegetation compared to modern machinery, according to the trust.
These machines are also more environmentally friendly than heavy machinery, as they do not require fossil fuels, he mentioned.
‘Amazing to see’
After conducting a small trial using horses for mowing last year, Scotney Castle ranger Richard Newman noted that wildflowers recovered better than they did after the use of tractors.
“We couldn’t believe our eyes. The meadow was revitalized with an abundance of wildflowers,” he said.
“We believe this is primarily due to the horses causing significantly less soil compaction, allowing wildflowers to regenerate rapidly.”
He added, “The added fertilisation from horse manure is indeed an extra bonus.”
The National Trust stated that mowing contributed to the wildflowers’ regrowth as the removal of grasses and nettles decreased the soil’s nutrient levels, a condition that is beneficial for wildflowers’ growth.
Flowers attract various types of insects and birds according to the trust, which increases biodiversity.
Mr. Newman stated that there is a long-standing tradition of using animals on the land in the High Weald, where Scotney Castle is situated.
He explained that historically, oxen were employed by farmers to navigate the deep valleys, small fields, and numerous streams and rivers of the region.
“Unfortunately, these traditional methods are beginning to disappear, but it’s worth attempting to revive them again,” he added.
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