Last year two key trees were removed from the lower end of the First Garden City s first conservation area, leaving large trees on the southern side of Croft Lane only. A week or two ago a wealth of ivy was also removed and with it what remained of the lo

Last year two key trees were removed from the lower end of the First Garden City's first conservation area, leaving large trees on the southern side of Croft Lane only. A week or two ago a wealth of ivy was also removed and with it what remained of the lower lane's rural charm.

Perhaps there are householders elsewhere who might be interested to learn that the country's wildlife gardening expert, Chris Baines, rates ivy as the best wildlife garden plant, whilst the RSPB advises and I quote "Ivy is many things to many different animals and will be a valuable addition to your wildlife garden. Dunnocks, chaffinches and blackbirds nest safely hidden amongst the twining stems. The evergreen leaves provide shelter from rain and cold, with insect food for small mammals and birds; while the berries are a valuable source of food in late winter when other supplies are running out. Adult peacock and tortoiseshell butterflies may hibernate in ivy for the winter."

Grow ivy over a fence, wall or shed, you can let it cover a big area or keep it pruned back as you wish. Contrary to common belief, ivy rarely harms vigorously growing trees.

LETCHWORTH RESIDENT, NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED