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Rhododendron ponticum             Megabash

Rhododendron was brought to the U.K in Victorian times and planted in gardens and on estates as evergreen game cover. When the estates fell into disrepair the gardens were neglected and the rhododendron was left to spread. Rhododendron ponticum is the culprit, releasing 1 million seeds a year to be carried on the wind and spread throughout the valley. It also spreads through its roots and lower branches: anywhere a branch touches the ground it sends out roots and forms a new plant. The result is a dense jungle which shades out all native plants and is of very little wildlife value. Our aim is to control the spread of rhododendron, clearing the mountain sides to allow the return of native heather and to enable trees to re-establish themselves.

The process involves cutting the bushes low to the ground using bow saws and loppers. The bushes are then burnt and the following year the new growth is sprayed. Without the help of volunteers this would be an impossible task.