Orchid translocation involves lifting and moving orchids from one place to another. This can be on a small scale, moving a few plants growing in a path. Or orchid retention may be required for planning consent on a large development project, which is becoming increasingly common. The orchids in question are unlikely to be one of the 9 species which has statutory protection under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside act 1981. For these 9 species it would be illegal to lift them. All UK orchid species are suffering a dramatic reduction in numbers, and sites are being lost to building and development, so it is well worth relocating them into a safe area with suitable conditions for them to thrive. The orchids’ presence may indicate an important habitat, with populations of other plants and invertebrates which are less recognisable and charismatic but just as important as the orchids. Orchids need to be carefully removed before ground works start. The plants may then be relocated somewhere else locally, or may be retained and planted back into a specially prepared habitat within the new development. Not all species can be moved successfully. Some species are entirely dependent on mycorrhizal connections within the soil or with neighbouring plants and the orchid will die if it is lifted.
British Orchids has been involved in many orchid translocation projects and we have the expertise to advise project managers on all aspects of orchid protection. We have successful translocation protocols for Bee orchid, Pyramidal orchid, Common spotted orchid, Southern marsh orchid, Northern marsh orchid, Heath spotted orchid, Autumn lady’s tresses, Green winged orchid, Chalk fragrant orchid, Marsh helleborine.
Translocation services
We identify your orchid species from a flower or leaf rosette. We count and flag orchids across a site.
We advise on the most effective time to lift orchid plants, avoiding periods of dormancy and flowering, when plants are either impossible to find or unlikely to survive. Different species have different life-cycles so timing needs to be species specific.
Orchid tubers grow in different shapes and at different depths depending on the species and maturity. We can advise on the depth of soil which needs to be removed and oversee the lifting and replanting.
We advise on steps to ensure that the orchid population remains healthy and self-sustaining, including creation of a suitable new habitat for orchids to be replanted. This is usually a wildflower meadow or ‘mini meadow’ . The drainage, soil type and pH can be tailored to suit the species.
Meadow creation provides biodiversity net gain, additional habitat for invertebrates, a permanent grassland which acts as a carbon sink and it is attractive for human visitors. Meadows are an efficient use of green space within a development, and particularly at the edges where they may link up with hedgerow or woodland, creating a joined up ecosystem. Meadow areas do not need to be mowed from April to August, so can be cost effective for ongoing grounds management. Please contact us to discuss your project.
