Gardeners are being called upon to help save a rare local plant species from extinction.
Grow Ltd is appealing for islanders to act as ‘custodians’ for the dwarf pansy, after numbers dwindled due to habitat erosion and coarser vegetation taking over.
‘These are feisty little plants – we are very excited to add this exquisite little pansy to our range of species with the aim of protecting it for the future,’ said Raymond Evison, joint founder of Grow Guernsey Natives, who gave the plants their first lease of life in his nursery.
‘I cannot stress enough the importance of this initiative. Without it, the species could well become extinct. The plant has a lifespan of one year, so collecting seed each year is essential to increase stock and ensure its future is secure.’
In addition to nurturing the plants, custodians will be asked to collect seeds as they ripen and dry them in readiness to sow next April.
The dwarf pansy, also named Viola Kitaibeliana, can disperse their seed up to two metres away from the flower head.
Read more on the Guernsey Press Website
