Summer in the garden: an update from Polly, our Eco-Gardener

Our Eco-Gardener, Polly Rowley-Sams, is always looking for ways to re-wild and support biodiversity. It is lovely to see the benefits, as our garden welcomes lots of visitors, both human and non-human.

Polly Rowley-Sams, Eco-Gardener at Richmond Barracks 

Here is an update from Polly about what has been happening in the garden:

This summer the heat has been unprecedented and the garden has been fizzing with energy - both the human and the solar kind.

As you sit and sip in the shade, peek over the borders and beds. You may spot damselflies, hoverflies and native Irish honey bees, all as light as dancers and all as beautiful as they are useful.

Notice and listen to them as they shake the air, brushing and buzzing the pollen out and carrying it away with them. Focused and determined, seemingly they are mindful creatures and will not be interrupted.

A busy bee in the garden at Richmond Barracks

All of this is lucky for us because they (as well as wind and water) are pollinating the plants as they interact with them.

This is such a vital gift to receive from nature as it results in vegetables, fruits and seeds for sharing, and serves as a tangible reminder that one out of every three bites we eat is due to the endeavours of pollinators.

Helping to make this an even more welcoming place are those contributing to the Community Garden. You will regularly see our community gardeners generously spending time and giving tender care (along with several watering cans) to a varied display of flowers, vegetables and herbs, as well as a range of native Irish trees.

By planting a range of species these people have added so much to the range of life here, increasing the biodiversity which has much value as it strengthens eco-systems as well as our community.

Community gardening in Richmond Barracks

Rest assured, there is always more than meets the eye, so if you are interested in finding out more, feel free to pop into the garden and say hello, and you will be made very welcome.

- Polly

Get involved

If you’d like to find out more about how you can get involved in the garden, visit our Garden page or contact us at info@richmondbarracks.ie

Biodiversity Worksheets

We have Biodiversity Self-Guided Worksheets for children to explore the garden with puzzles, maps and information about the garden and biodiversity. It is available to download here.

We hope to see you soon!