| One of the finest areas of marshy grassland
in Hertfordshire. It is at its best in late spring and summer when it is
resplendent with orchids and butterflies.
Blagrove Common is one of the few remaining areas of unimproved marshy grassland on poorly drained boulder clay. It is bisected by a stream and varies in wetness from marshy grasslands to dry neutral grassland. The grasslands have been maintained for centuries by grazing. This form of management ensures that some scarcer species, such as orchids, survive instead of allowing the commoner more vigorous grasses to outcompete all others. Traditional grazing on wet areas also produces muddy, trampled areas which are an important micro-habitat for some plants and invertebrates. The drier areas support meadow foxtail grass, common cat's ear and common sorrel among many other species. The Trust has a management agreement with the landowner. Local people still use the common for grazing cows and rights for grazing other animals still exist. |
 The grasslands have been maintained for centuries by grazing.
This form of management ensures that some scarcer species, such as orchids,
survive instead of allowing the commoner more vigorous grasses to out-compete
all others. |
| Visiting |
 Head north on the A10. At Buckland turn left (Whitley Lane) towards
Therfield. The road bears sharp right and follows the River Rib. Turn left
at the next junction towards Sandon and then left again at the next junction
towards Green End. There is a small green where a car can be parked on the
edge. The reserve is entered from a small driveway leading past a gate house,
sign-posted as a public footpath. Cars should not be left on the driveway,
but on the edge of the lane outside. |
 There is no public transport available. |
 Accessible at all times. |
 Worth a visit at all times of the year but the spring and summer
months are usually the most interesting. |
 Conditions are easy but wet. Wellingtons are recommended. |