As the saying goes, ‘from small acorns big oak trees grow’. Well maybe not that big, and not oak trees but the Ross and District U3A (University of the Third Age) Environmental Matters Group believe that sustainable insect friendly planting is the way forward, and they have made a start on increasing wildlife in Ross by tidying and planting some flowerbeds.

We all know that there is no money in the coffers of the County Council and they have cut the open space maintenance, and given large chunks of open space to Ross Town Council for its upkeep. Ross-on-Wye Town Council is also short of funds and seeking help from the community. The U3A has been given permission to plant three welcome beds around Ross, one in Ledbury Road near the High School entrance, one at the top of Gloucester road and one at the Junction of Wye Street and Wilton Road.

The U3A gave a grant to purchase plants and Ross Garden Store kindly stretched that sum and has provided most of the plants, some fertiliser and growing medium. A member of Ross Horticultural Society also donated some plants.

Members of the U3A provided the tools and labour for a planting party. Despite the rain on Sunday, May 22nd they spent the afternoon, clearing and re-using some of the plants already there.

All the beds have been planted with similar plants, Ceonothus, Cistus, geranium and dogwoods (for winter colour). The planting is more permanent than using just bedding plants and the group hopes this will mean they will need less maintenance. The current colour theme is blue and white. They intend to plant some bulbs in September which will give spring flowers and colour.

Although this is a small start they hope that the new planting will be enjoyed by the many visitors to Ross, and by the local community, as well as bees and other essential pollinators.

Their heartfelt thanks go to Ross Town Council for allowing them to do this, Ross Garden Store for their input into the selection of plants and the clearing of the beds, along with the provision of many plants. The U3A for the grant. The volunteers who willingly gave their time and strength to plant the beds, Liz, Jane, Dixie, Mary, Sandie, Jen and Julie.

Plans are already in hand for further sustainable wildlife friendly planting. If you or your group would like to join the U3A in helping Ross go wild, in the prettiest possible way, contact the group via their website: u3asites.org.uk/ross/home.