Last weekend was the last of September, the days are shorter than the nights, and we really should be entering the season of high rainfall and "equinoxial gales". But at the Heath most of the volunteer group were again barrowing water to keep last winter's trees and hedgerow plants alive, as meaningful rain continues to hold off.
The good news is that shorter days, lower temperatures (though still way above the old "normal") and night-time dew all help our drought-stressed plants cope, and provide a much needed source of moisture for invertebrates, small mammals and birds.
Even though we're rolling into mid-autumn, some trees and shrubs are pushing out new leaves to generate late season energy to see them through the winter, after a long aestivation (dormancy used by plants and animals to survive extreme summer conditions).
Making new leaves takes energy, so it can be a bit of a gamble - but its a risk many species will take. Plants photosynthesise less in shorter days with lower sun, so generate less energy at this time of year - and larger trees put themselves at increased risk from autumn gales - if and when they come.
The moisture from dew allows seeds to germinate, and scorched grass and wildflowers to grow - so we are seeing a subtle green tinge to the grasslands as they return to life - with leaves of wild geranium, clover, vetches, buttercups and more.
To give these seedlings the best chance, we're busy removing old grass growth and thatch from some areas - which creates better conditions for wildflower seed germination. Last week, we worked on areas alongside the path near the tennis courts.
And of course, we recovered another load of litter... another great week.
Thanks to everyone who helped us help the Heath in its recovery last week!
