Scientists Have Discovered 58 Tiny Animal Species on Lancaster West Estate’s Prairie Garden
They traced the DNA left behind by the creatures that crawl around underground - as part of Grow2Know's Walkways Wildlife project in partnership with Natural History Museum’s Urban Nature Project and Lancaster West Neighbourhood Team.
The scientists have analysed the findings from their first visit back in October 2021 and they have been able to detect around 58 animal species. 95% of these were worms but they also identified some flies, moths, slugs, spiders, springtails, and wasps, including:
Lancaster West Prairie Garden
The new Prairie Garden between Hurstway and Testerton Walk on Lancaster West was planted in October 2021 by Walkway residents.
The Prairie Garden was built after consulting with Lancaster West residents and is a project in partnership with Grow2Know CiC and the Natural History Museum.
Rob's Tips for Gardening
SOIL
Check the type of soil that is recommended for the plant you want to grow. Most plants grow better in a specific type of soil.
INDOOR PLANTS
It is recommended that you change the soil for indoor plants every 6 months - to renew the nutrients.
WATERING
Too much moisture can be just as damaging to plants as too little - It is important to keep an eye on the weather and remember to water the roots!
COMPOST
Composting kitchen and garden waste transforms it into a valuable and nutrient rich food for plants.
Creating a Garden Estate with a thriving environment
- Plants remove CO2 from the atmosphere and will help us reach our net-zero goal
- Green space improves air quality
- Only ½ of the UK population has easy access to green space; on Lancaster West only 10% of residents have access to private green space
- Mental health and wellbeing improves with access and interaction with green space Nature helps to reduce the effects of the climate crisis
- Protecting, supporting and growing biodiversity, wildlife and local species
- Growing food locally helps to reduce carbon footprints
Find out more on our sustainability page
Compost Bins
Composting tips:
- Chopping material for the compost bin speeds up the composting process
- If your compost bin appears too dry, add a few sprinkles of water for moisture
- Make sure you have a good mix of green and brown compost material to ensure your compost is the right texture
- Green material can be vegetable peelings, egg shells, tea-bags, coffee grounds
- Brown material can be woody pruning's, plant stems, twigs, egg boxes, crumpled paper, wood shavings
- It takes between six to nine months for your compost to be ready.
Get Involved
Join our team of volunteers helping to shape our green spaces. Get involved and join our team of enthusiastic volunteers led by our estate gardener Robert.
Gain an insight into the world of gardening and enhance your skills and knowledge whilst contributing to the future of your green spaces.
Contact: Robert Pereno Email: Robert.Halbert-Pereno@rbkc.gov.uk Phone: 07814612876
