Scything for all workshop

 

Learn how and have a go at our Introduction to Scything workshop 

 

Scything is an historic method of managing grassland that's as effective today as it was hundreds of years ago. It’s the best way to mow wildflower areas, leaving no shreds to inadvertently enrich the soil. It’s surprisingly easy once you've established a good rhythm, and hugely satisfying too. 

With many more locals nurturing wildflower patches, Re-Betchworth has engaged Mary Ellis again to run this year's beginner’s Scything Workshop here in Betchworth.

when: Saturday 9 August
time: 10.00-4.00
where: Goulburn Green 
 
Mary ran a very successful and enjoyable workshop for us in 2023 so we're delighted to have her back this year. She is secretary of the Scything Association, and runs scything courses for Surrey Wildlife Trust (SWT) and other organisations all over the South East. The SWT course costs £125-140; by re-investing our AppleFest surplus we are able to offer exactly the same course for just £60 - a bargain! 
 
Mary will bring all the necessary equipment, but do bring your own scythe if you have one. Her introductory workshop will cover:

• where and when scything can be used most effectively
• how to adjust the scythe to best fit you
• sharpening and ‘peening’ too
• the principles of movement  

Then we'll put all our new found knowledge into practice. Under careful supervision, you’ll learn to scythe and cut the mini meadow on Goulburn Green, Betchworth in the process.
 
For safety reasons Mary has set a maximum of seven places for this highly subsidised course, so please register your interest now by emailing re-betchworth@gmail.com.