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Ruth Wharrier BA (Hons), PGCE, EGS, FLS

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Author: Ruth Wharrier

Black Poplars: How to Save a Tree

September 16, 2026 Ruth Wharrier Black Poplars: How to Save a Tree Have you ever heard of a black poplar? You’ve probably seen one, at least in a painting, even if you didn’t recognise it as such. The black poplar is Britain’s most endangered tree, and features in Constable’s famous work, The Hay Wain. Martha Kearney is in Suffolk to see black poplars at Flatford Mill, the location in the painting, and to talk to botanical artist Ruth Wharrier about painting from nature. With tree wardens David Appleton and Fe Morris, Martha surveys new trees on the riverbank nearby. She finishes by visiting a new clone bank of trees at Jimmy’s Farm, which are thriving between the wolves and polar bears. Without active support, this native British tree could disappear from our countryside altogether. Suffolk Tree Warden Network: https://www.suffolktreewardens.org.ukhttps://ruthwharrier.comhttps://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/adult-learning/botanical-art Producer: Beth O’Dea Listen now on BBC Sounds

Bredfield Jubilee Meadow & Orchard Bio-diversity Board – Unveiled Summer 2026

September 9, 2026 Ruth Wharrier New biodiversity board unveiled at Bredfield Jubilee Meadow & Orchard A new Biodiversity Board celebrates the wildlife of Bredfield Jubilee Meadow & Orchard Visitors to Bredfield Jubilee Meadow & Orchard can now discover more about the wonderful wildlife and plant life that makes the meadow such a special place, thanks to a new Biodiversity Board by Ruth. The board has been created using Ruth’s distinctive botanical art skills to capture some of the species that can be found at the meadow throughout the year. Among the wildlife featured are familiar little visitors such as Wrens and Whitethroats, alongside Blackthorn and other important plants that form part of the meadow’s rich natural habitat. Ruth’s detailed and sensitive illustrations bring the species to life, creating a board that is not only informative but also a beautiful celebration of the biodiversity on the doorstep of the local community. The artwork highlights the interconnected nature of the meadow, showing how its plants, birds and other wildlife all contribute to a thriving natural environment. The Biodiversity Board is intended to encourage visitors to pause, look a little closer and appreciate the variety of life around them. Whether spotting a Wren darting through the hedgerow, hearing the distinctive song of a Whitethroat or noticing the delicate blossom and berries of Blackthorn, there is always something new to discover at Bredfield Jubilee Meadow & Orchard. The commission reflects the commitment of Bredfield Jubilee Meadow & Orchard to protecting and celebrating local biodiversity, while providing an engaging way for residents and visitors of all ages to learn more about the species that share this special space.  A Little bit out about Bredfield Jubilee Meadow & Orchard Bredfield Jubilee Meadow and Orchard was started as a community venture in 2013. The village bought a field that had not experienced intensive agriculture. Twenty-four orchard trees – apples, pears, plums and quinces – were planted. Today, there is an entrance gate, a small shelter and a mowed path. Bredfield residents visit the meadow and orchard to experience the wildflowers and butterflies, and also to find a quiet retreat. Occasional events are held in the meadow, such as our Apple Juicing Day that happens each autumn. Bredfield Jubilee Meadow and Orchard has been given a Green Flag Community Award for the last five years.In November 2024, Bredfield Meadow and Orchard was officially designated as a Suffolk County Wildlife Site. For more information visit: https://bredfieldwfv.org.uk/jubilee-meadow-and-orchard/