Flowering hollies
Holly (Ilex aquilifolium) is our only evergreen native flowering plant tree.
Rats
There have been concerns about an increase in rats on the CREOS paths this spring.
Winter plants
Despite being in the middle of a wet winter, it is pleasing to see plant life thriving near the entrance to the CREOS woodland walks.
Fallen Oak
We are sorry to report that one of our old oak trees has fallen over, by the pathway that runs beside the Hanley Tennis Club. Fortunately the clubhouse escaped damage as far as we are aware.
In search of bats
On a fine August evening a group of CREOS members gathered together to go in search of bats in the CREOS woodland.
The Wild Service Tree
The Wild Service Tree, with an average lifespan of 100-200 years and a height of up to 15 metres, is one of the best indicator species of ancient woodlands in southern England
The scourge of Japanese Knotweed
There has been a persistent problem with Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) in the CREOS area. It is pleasing to report that this is now well on the way to eradication.
In Praise of Hornbeams
The hornbeam is one of the most versatile British trees. Freestanding mature specimens, with their characteristic conical crowns, have considerable amenity value, whilst the wood, the hardest of any tree in Europe, provides valuable timber for furniture.
Snowfall
The night of December 11th saw our first snowfall of the winter, and the cold temperature meant that the snow stayed on the ground for a week.
The CREOS Wildflower Meadow
Three years ago we established an experimental wildflower meadow along the western edge of the school playing field. Now the meadow is established and continues to bloom in the summer, providing colour as well as attracting bees and butterflies, and of course local passers-by.