Home / Environment / Rare Trees Take Root on Teesdale Cliffs
Rare Trees Take Root on Teesdale Cliffs
13 Apr
Summary
- Rare rock whitebeam trees are being replanted in a small limestone quarry.
- Seed was collected in autumn 2022 and germinated at Bowlees wildflower nursery.
- The trees are planted on inaccessible cliff ledges to protect them from grazing.
In Teesdale's North Pennines, a significant effort is underway to re-establish the rare rock whitebeam tree. Seed from this unique species was collected in autumn 2022 from a riverside outcrop and sent to Kew Gardens' Millennium Seed Bank. Further germination occurred at the Bowlees wildflower nursery.
Nurtured young trees are now being planted in a small limestone quarry. This location offers inaccessible ledges, crucial for protecting the rock whitebeam from grazing animals. The trees' ability to establish roots in rock crevices makes them resilient survivors in harsh conditions.
The planting is taking place near the Bow Lee beck, within a picturesque wooded dene featuring the Summerhill Force waterfall and Gibson's Cave. This initiative highlights the dedication to preserving Teesdale's unique flora in its natural landscape.
