Wildflower survival project grows 30 species

The States of Guernsey awarded a £1,500 grant to Grow for the initiative

The number of plant species grown in a project aimed at promoting and protecting native wildflowers has increased from seven to about 30 in two years.

The Grow Guernsey Natives project was launched in 2022 by horticulturalist Raymond Evison, La Société Guernesiase and charity Grow, with the aim of raising awareness of island plants.

Earlier in 2024, the States of Guernsey awarded a £1,500 grant to Grow - which supports people with learning disabilities - for the initiative through its Strategy for Nature Fund.

Organisers urged islanders to buy and grow the species in their gardens "guaranteeing their survival for generations to come".

Grow said a survey carried out by La Société Guernesiase identified 167 plant species in the Bailiwick that were considered rare in Britain.

Stuart Smale, Grow’s horticulture manager, said the money from the States would be a big boost for the "worthwhile project".

"Our crew enjoy working with the plants and take pride in making sure they are in good condition for sale," he said.

Teams running the project are encouraging people to plant the native species in their garden

Helen Litchfield, joint secretary of the botany section of La Société Guernesiase, said: "Our aim is to raise awareness of native and naturalised rare plants encouraging people to plant them in their gardens.

"In this way we will be guaranteeing their survival for generations to come."