In December 2006 the University of Oxford Botanic Botanic Garden and Harcourt Arboretum purchased a further 50-acres on the southwest boundary of the Harcourt Arboretum. Since that time, work has progressed faster than any of us anticipated to restore Palmer’s Leys.

Key to the success of the project was the completion of the initial survey work to find out which plants were there already. This work was carried out by two undergraduates. Not surprisingly the set-aside arable land in Palmer’s Leys was very poor. This survey work has provided us with firm data upon which we have planned the restoration of this historic landscape.

Since completing the survey work we have carried out some essential drainage work and planted 13,000 British native trees to create the 20 acres of woodland that will be a major feature of Palmer’s Leys. These trees were planted between January and March 2008 by the Arboretum and Garden Staff with help from local school children and a group of enthusiastic volunteers. These trees were planted as woodland types following the tradition created by the Harcourt Family when they first planted the Arboretum in the 19th century. It was not an easy job, nor was it quick but it was one of the most satisfying jobs that we have ever been involved. As they were planted each tree was individually protected against rabbits and deer. This work was only made possible through the generous support of the Woodland Grant Scheme.

The trees cover 20 acres, which leaves 30 acres for the new meadow. Following advice from Charles Flowers of Flowers Farms it was decided that seeds should be harvested from the existing Meadow last Summer and when these had been dried, extra seeds of bird’s foot trefoil, common sorrel, cowslip, field scabious, lady’s bedstraw, lesser knapweed, oxeye daisy, ragged robin, ribwort plantain, self heal, tufted vetch, yarrow and yellow rattle would be added. Prior to sowing the first 10 acres were ploughed and harrowed before the seeds were broadcast.  Work will continue on the meadow over the next couple of years to complete this important element of Palmer’s Leys.