Welcome to Ardwick Green Park & The A6!

Known by its more common name - Sloe, Blackthorn has wide-reaching benefits for nature.
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In hedging, it provides a rich habitat and food source for birds. Blackthorn is particularly important to Hairstreak Butterflies, found across the British Isles, mainly as a food source.

Hawthorns have a variety of benefits for nature.
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Their white flowers are eaten by small mammals and migrating birds like thrushes.
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They also provide nectar for pollinators such as bees.

Hazel is an important food source to numerous species found in the U.K. and Manchester, including the Small White Wave moth.
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Despite being wind-pollinated, the male yellow catkins, or lamb tails, are an important early source of pollen for hive bees.

Spindle creates a circular ecosystem by attracting both prey and predators.

Aphids love to munch on their leaves, which attracts hoverflies and ladybirds which in turn will feed on them. Once matured into a hedgerow, the Spindle also attracts birds such as the sparrow.

With an abundance of blossom, the Guelder Rose provides a vital source of pollen and nectar to pollinators and insects.
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Guelder Rose is an important habitat for Bullfinches. Although rare in Manchester, they have been sited in the area.

Hornbeam is a common addition in garden hedging due to its thick foliage which offers privacy. 
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An important habitat for birds, Blackbirds will shelter and nest in Hornbeam.

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Holly is critical to insect ecology and aids species throughout their life cycle.​

Species found in Manchester such as the Double-Striped Pug and the Holly Tortrix moths lay their eggs on holly, with caterpillars pupating on the plant.

Buckthorn species are the primary food source for the Brimstone Butterfly, which has been sited in the area. Although they are widely distributed across the UK, they are few in number when found.  By adding Buckthorn, we hope to support this species in Manchester.

Alder Buckthorn is a variety that is a specific food source for the Brimstone caterpillar. Its flowers are an important food source for insects and provide pollen for Manchester pollinators.
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The berries are a food source for local birds, including thrushes.

Wild Privet has co-evolved with the Privet Hawk-Moth in the UK, utilising the plant throughout its lifecycle. ​Privet Hawk-Moths are more common in central and southern areas of England, however they are found in Manchester. With a wingspan of up to 12cm, they are the largest moth to be found in the North.​