Just like compounding interest bush regeneration gets increasing returns over time.
This is apparent in Windabout Reserve where Beechmont Landcare held its first working bee for the year.
Originally overgrown with Privet trees, over the last five years or so the trees have been felled or poisoned and tubestock of more diverse species have filled out the space.
When the canopy of large Privet trees was taken away the sun was allowed into the area which in turn promoted unwanted species to take hold.
The group’s volunteers had to work hard to stop these new plants from getting established helped by contractors engaged using environmental grants from the Scenic Rim Regional Council.
Every year the seedings have grown larger until at last they are providing a canopy of their own, slowing down the unwanted species.
These increasingly mature species shed their leaves and branches which introduces more nutrition into the soil. Small insects were drawn to help with this decomposition.
All along birds are attracted to the insects and the nectar produced by the flowering plants. They in turn brings seeds of new plants which increase the biodiversity of the areas.
As time goes by the area gets a better and better return. Compounding regeneration.
Walking through Windabout Reserve you will notice that the areas that have been regenerated are very different to the still untouched Privet forest. The warm and moist weather this summer has promoted stunning growth.
If you want to give yourself some time with nature, go for a wander through Windabout Reserve.
