The life cycle of Heather (Calluna vulgaris)

Heather (Calluna vulgaris) A dominant plant of British heathlands, grows in four main stages: Pioneer Building Mature Degenerate

Pioneer Phase 5 - 6 years, from seedling development and establishment until the plant has developed into a fully formed bush. Heather cover is small and other species of vascular plants reach their greatest abundance, also mosses and lichens.

Building Phase Up to about 15 years old, until the bush-like form is well-established. Heather excludes all other species.

Mature Phase To about 25 years old. Heather dominant, but becoming woody Growth becomes less vigorous the centre of the bush begins to open and branches grow on the soil surface. Bryophytes (mainly mosses) colonize the soil surface because of increased humidity beneath the closed canopy.

Degenerate Phase after 30 years, leads to death active growth declines and the plant canopy continues to open and exposes more ground. Bryophytes reach their maximum abundance, other species of vascular plants and Heather seedlings are able to re-establish.

Heather management Prevent succession to woodland Regenerate heather Young shoots eaten by grouse and sheep Pioneer phase important for invertebrates Invertebrates are food for chicks Small patches/strips produce edges give access to cover

Heather management OPTIONS ? Grazing Cutting Burning

Grazing Helps prevent invasion by trees and shrubs Encourages branching and layering Trampling opens up canopy, creates paths High stocking densities (>1.5 ewes ha-1) reduces heather cover in favour of grasses

Cutting Narrow strips give long edges Not weather dependent No risk of wild fire Layering possible Less wildlife value than burning

Burning Kills heather beetles and ticks Cracks open seeds Ash releases nutrients No litter to inhibit seeding Looks ‘natural’ May encourage bracken invasion

Conservation management Black grouse Open woodland and moorland

Conservation management Hen Harrier Invertebrates