Lichens

I love a walk in the woods at this time of year, they have a different feel about them. All the senses experience a different environment to that of the woods in other season – the cold, damp air and ground feels refreshing and the wind on exposed cheeks make me think that the woods have had their annual wash and cobwebs cleared ready for the next season to begin.

There are different smells and sounds now too – it smells damp with decay and regeneration; pheasant squawks and flapping wings; droplets dripping through the branches. You’ll find squirrel drays and nests that are hidden the rest of the year; and the colours are different – mostly muted but with a few splashes of bright colour here and there from berries, evergreens and lichens.

There are tens of thousands of different lichen species in the world and a myriad of different forms, colours and sizes; and are actually two or more different organisms existing together symbiotically. They thrive in good, clean air so are a handy indicator of air pollution, though they are very slow growing so it’ll take time for them to colonise an area that was once too polluted for them to live.

Woodland is important for so many things:
Biodiversity
Carbon capture and improved air quality
Management of soil and nutrient loss
Reduction of erosion
Improved natural flood management and water quality
…and, not least, our own wellbeing

These are just as important and achievable in urban settings as they are in rural settings, or, if you have a garden, small holding, rural business or a large rural estate.

So, whether you want to plant a single tree or several hundred, give us a call to see how we can help you make the right choices for your space and your goals.

Thanks for looking in, take care, Angela