Database

Preserve old stone gardens

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Open space	Living environment, Landscape, Cultural	Maintenance and restoration of stone fences

In order to maintain biodiversity and ensure ecological connectivity in grasslands, structural elements of habitats (e.g. old trees, old trees, old growth trees, dead trees and snags, flatwood, hardwood, hollow trees, scorch marks, shrub species and species of rare trees, structures and other heritage features) are maintained, taking into account their potential impact on grassland health, ecosystem condition and human safety.

Description of the action

Preserve the old stone fences. When restoring stone fences, it is advisable to source stones nearby. Maintenance and restoration of rock gardens should be undertaken in spring or summer, outside the winter hibernation periods. When restoring, stones should be placed as flat as possible in relation to the ground, with the centre of gravity towards the centre of the garden. Shift each row of stones slightly closer to the central axis of the garden so that the garden gradually narrows as it grows in height. Avoid overlapping the spaces between the stones.

Why?

Old stone meadows act as connecting corridors in the agricultural landscape, providing habitats and habitats for many species. When mosses start to grow between the stones, they form a shallow, nutrient-rich soil that can provide a growing medium for flowers. The southern sides of the rock gardens provide a warm, sunny spot for warmth-loving insects and reptiles. The hollows provide habitat for reptiles and amphibians.

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