Marden Meadow
O.S. Map 188 TQ 763445 : Nr Cranbrook
Three fields totalling 5.6 hectares. The western-most field is one of the best remaining examples of unimproved haymeadows in Kent.
In May it is covered with thousands of green-winged orchids, together with similar numbers of adder’s-tongue. Later in the year pepper saxifrage, dyer’s greenweed and yellow rattle are common amongst the daisies, vetches, and wild grass. The smaller of the two ponds is overshadowed by a large wild service-tree and, in some years, has an abundant show of water violet.
The two adjacent fields were purchased in 1999. These had been ‘agriculturally improved’ in the past and are now being restored using hay and seed from the old unimproved meadow.
Directions
By Road:
Between Marden and Staplehurst on Marden Road near Mountain Farm.
Public Transport:
Public transport is available to Marden or Staplehurst 1½ miles (2.4 km).
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Key site for
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The larger pond, with its dense stands of bulrush and marginal vegetation, provides nesting habitat for: reed warblers and geese
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Plant life: Mainly noted for stunning displays of meadow plant life including thousands of green-winged orchids, with similar numbers of adder’s-tongue. Later in the year the meadow lays host to pepper saxifrage, dyer’s greenweed and yellow rattle are common amongst the buttercups, vetches, daisies and wild grasses.
Wildlife update
