Visitors are being asked not to pick or trample on Epping Forest’s native English bluebells, including those growing in Chalet Wood in Wanstead Park.
“The past few years have been hugely damaging to our rare bluebell population. Sadly, a growing number of visitors seem to care more about getting a social media moment than the lasting damage they leave behind,” said Ben Murphy, Chairman of the Epping Forest and Commons Committee.
Bluebells serve an important purpose in the park’s ecosystem, feeding bees and other early pollinators. Even when not visible above ground, the bulbs can be damaged by heavy footfall, and when the plants are trampled on, it can take them four to seven years to re-establish and grow again.
“To avoid us having to close off areas of Epping Forest, we hope by explaining why these sites are so important, alongside new pathways and signage, visitors will work with us to protect these wonderful bluebells for years to come.”
