πΏ Nature Thrives at Mud Island Community Garden! πΏ
A recent biodiversity survey by SETU Waterford student and Mudisland neighbour Sally Parsley reveals that the verges around Mud Island Community Garden are buzzing with life!
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18 plant species identified
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83% are native & pollinator-friendly
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5 top pollinator plants spotted (including Common knapweed & Creeping buttercup)
π± Grasses dominate the area, but wildflowers like Wild Rocket and Ox-eye Daisy add color and food for pollinators. However, no threatened species were found and two invasive plants (Japanese Knotweed & Butterfly Bush – the traitor!) need our attention.
π¦ Bird bonus: 20 species recorded in and around the garden, including Robins, Blackbirds, and the threatened House Sparrow. This urban green space is a true wildlife haven.
π‘ What can you do?
β Plant pollinator-friendly flowers
β Help remove invasive species (Note from Sally: ‘some cultivars now don’t spread their seed and buddleia davidii can be managed by cutting back hard after flowering so the seeds don’t set’)
β Share your wildlife sightings
Together, we can keep North Strand blooming for bees, birds, and biodiversity! πΈπ
π Source: Biodiversity survey of flora in the verges of Mud Island Community Garden, 4th Dec 2025, by Sally Parsley, SETU Waterford. Available HERE.
