This year’s drought has forced trees and shrubs to produce their seeds earlier than usual. Crab apple, rowan, birch, dogwood and wild service are among the species already producing ripened seed, so our collecting season has begun ahead of schedule!
Once collected, the seeds are brought back to the Community Tree Nursery where our volunteers help process them. Depending on the species, this may involve removing skin and fruit pulp or preparing them for storage and sowing. It is a hands-on job and every seed has the potential to become a young Sherwood sapling.
Growing native trees is especially important because they are well suited to local conditions and provide valuable habitats and food. Rowan berries, crab apples and dogwood fruits are eaten by an array of wildlife.
By collecting and growing seeds locally, our volunteers are helping to grow and protect the future of Sherwood Forest.
Get involved! Come along to one of our guided tree walks or volunteer at our Community Tree Nursery, follow the link to our website.
