Autumn Bracken

On a bright sunny day in late October, the bracken-covered fells in the Newlands Valley were a delight. The autumn colours were magnificent. Unfortunately bracken has a down side. It is very invasive and on the lower fells has become a real problem for farmers. It cuts down the grazing options and is also a harbourer of sheep ticks. Walkers need to be aware as they can latch on to humans and potentially pass on Lyme’s Disease. I recently read some good news relating to bracken, which, when combined with sheep’s wool, and allowed to rot, produced an excellent peat free compost, high in potash and nitrogen.