Written by: Jamie Graham
2021
Heathland is one of the rarest and most threatened habitats in the UK. The greenskeepers on the Queen's course are actively working to regenerate existing heather as well as restore other areas with new plantings to create larger and more inter-connected patches. Historically, heathland was present throughout this landscape, providing valuable habitat for specific types of birds, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles and flowering plants. As well as planting heather seed and saplings, we have been thinning out surrounding birch and pine tree stands which have developed naturally over time and now out-compete the heather. Thinning is essential for the heather to re-establish successfully, as it improves light and airflow, which is also beneficial for turf health.
