Bot-any spare bathtubs? (And no, we're not having a bubble!)
Rub-a-dub-dub, can you spare WWT Washington Wetland Centre a tub!?
Wardens at the Wearside nature reserve are on the sponge for some unusual donations to help their plant nursery bloom.
Wetland plants including yellow flag iris and marsh marigolds are grown and used across the 100-acre site, to help filter and clean the water as it passes through a network of ponds.
They are propagated at the plant nursery, where wardens have discovered that a recycled bathtub makes an ideal container for growing them in.
Reserve warden John Oliver said: “These marginal plants have flourished in the bathtubs that we’re already using so I’m keen to start planting more. We have plenty of space but unfortunately we’ve run out of tubs.
“Ideally, we’d like 20 more and it would be great if they could be brought down to the centre but we’re happy to collect if necessary. Even if they’re a bit damaged it’s okay, although they do need to be in tact in the bottom, so that they don’t leak. We’ll also accept old shower trays too, as these can be used as drip trays in which to stand the plants when we water them.
“As a thank you, we have some lovely marsh marigolds that people can take away with them to plant in their own back garden.”
The plant nursery is within an area of the grounds that is earmarked for redevelopment as a sustainable garden, funds allowing. Preliminary plans for the exhibit feature recycled elements, including a greenhouse made from empty plastic bottles; raised beds that will provide food for the café and a green space for schoolchildren and families to take part in gardening activities.
If you have a bathtub to donate, please contact the centre on 0191 416 5454 or email info.washington@wwt.org.uk
Connect with nature come rain or shine at the award-winning WWT Washington Wetland Centre! Meet exotic wildfowl, Chilean flamingos, Eurasian cranes, Asian short-clawed otters and explore beautiful habitats full of amazing wetland wildlife. Open 364 days a year with a gift shop, Waterside Cafe, play area and new interactive Pond zone!
