Bradley Method of Bush Regeneration
An Australian method devised by two sisters in the early 1960's which is equally applicable to NZ bush
"The aim of their work was to clear small niches adjacent to healthy native vegetation so that each area could be recolonised and stabilized by the regeneration of native plants, replacing an area previously occupied by weeds. The Bradley method follows three main principles:
1 • secure the best areas first
2 • minimise disturbance of the natural conditions
3 • let the regenerative ability of the bush set pace of clearance"
- Wikipedia -
"The naturalistic approach of the Bradley sisters encourages native vegetation to re-establish itself spontaneously. They used their method to successfully clear weeds from a 16 hectare (40 acre) woodland reserve. Their process demonstrated that subsequent maintenance was needed only once or twice a year, mainly in vulnerable spots such as creek banks, roadsides and clearings, to keep the area weed-free."
- Wikipedia -
"Weeding a little at a time from the bush towards the weeds takes the pressure off the natives under favourable conditions. Native seeds and spores are already in the ground and the natural environment favours plants that have evolved in it. The balance is tipped back towards regeneration. Keep it that way, by always working where the strongest area of bush meets the weakest weeds"
- Excerpt from 'Bringing Back the Bush' -
