Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Blog - Silk Wood

Storms & Sorbus

Winter storms took their toll, but our volunteers stepped up! Discover how we rallied together to repair the damage and ensure the survival of young trees at our planting site in our latest update.

View Full Post

The Sound of the Underground

Eco-acoustics, or acoustic ecology, is the study of sound in the environment – including human generated noise (anthrophony), sounds generated by nature (biophony), or even sounds of the earth such as wind, waves, and geological movements (geophony).

View Full Post

Tree of the month: Holly

Each month we’re going to bring you a profile of one of the UK native tree species being planted in the Silk Wood Community Planting Project. It wouldn’t be December without mentioning our most festive tree – the holly.

View Full Post

Countryfile at Westonbirt Arboretum

If your Sunday evening viewing has you captivated by the awesome autumn beauty and historic heritage of The National Arboretum, you’re not alone. The awe-inspiring collection of Japanese Acers, Oak trees, and Whitebeams are world-famous, transforming the landscape in a dazzling array of yellow, orange, and crimson hues in autumn.

View Full Post

Tree of the month: Alder buckthorn

Each month we’re going to bring you a profile of one of the UK native tree species being planted in the Silk Wood Community Planting Project. For November, it’s the alder buckthorn.

View Full Post

A Summer of Success – in numbers

With the crisp autumn air and shorter days upon us, let’s revisit the warmer, albeit wetter, months of the Silk Wood Community Planting Project.

View Full Post

Tree of the month: Crab apple

Each month we’re going to bring you a profile of one of the UK native tree species being planted in the Silk Wood Community Planting Project – this October it's crab apple.

View Full Post

Beat around the bush

The Silk Wood Community Planting Project team and volunteers recently conducted a 'beat-up survey' to assess the survival rate of saplings planted last year.

View Full Post

A Natural Volunteer

We've been incredibly fortunate to have Mother Nature as a dedicated volunteer. She's not only helped us plant over 30 trees (that we know of) but has also provided invaluable care and nourishment for our green spaces. And the best part? She works completely for free!...

View Full Post

Tree of the Month: Pedunculate Oak

Supporting over 2,300 species, the oak is a true wildlife haven, hosting a diverse range of creatures from insects and birds to mammals and fungi. Its acorns provide a valuable food source for wildlife, and its timber has been used for centuries...

View Full Post

Woodland Design Revisited

A whirlwind of creativity! We had a blast reviewing the amazing woodland designs created by local school groups. These inspiring ideas will help shape the future of Silk Wood. Stay tuned for updates on the chosen design!...

View Full Post

Identity Parade

Sun, plants, and learning! Last month, we joined a Field Studies Council course to learn how to identify woodland plants. It was a fantastic two days of exploring the beautiful Silk Wood and gaining new knowledge about our local ecosystem.

View Full Post

Caring Connections

Changes Bristol recently spent a day at Westonbirt Arboretum, nurturing saplings and learning about the vital role forests play in our ecosystem. Discover how this rewarding experience benefitted both their mental well-being and the planet.

View Full Post