Knapp and Knowle

The ecological success of the Knapp and Knowle cluster is driven by its habitat diversity. While it may look like a series of simple green fields, a closer look at the plant life reveals a complex "mosaic" of different environments—from damp grasslands to ancient-style parkland.

The Dominance of Grassland and Parkland

The primary character of this cluster is defined by its open spaces:

• Neutral Grassland: This is the most visible habitat type, supported by the local Otter Sandstone soil. Nearly 46% of all neutral grassland species found in the Sidmouth survey live here.

• Parkland and Scattered Trees: This habitat is even more significant for the cluster, hosting nearly 59% of all parkland species recorded in the entire survey. This reflects the history of sites like The Knowle, which was once the grounds of a large manor house.

Specialist "Niche" Habitats

Beyond the broad fields, the cluster contains specialised pockets that support unique wildlife:

• Wetlands: The Knapp Nature Pond and damp sections of The Knowle provide essential homes for water-margin flora.

• Broadleaved Woodland: While the only true wood is at the center of The Knapp, woodland-associated plants are found throughout the cluster's hedgerows and scrub.

• Cultivated and "Brownfield" Land: Human activity has shaped parts of the cluster. Sidmouth Cemetery, for example, hosts "weeds of cultivation" in areas where the ground has been disturbed.

The Human Influence: Gardens and Agriculture

The cluster sits on the edge of Sidmouth town, and our gardens have left their mark. You can find garden-escaped plants at The Knowle (remnants of its history) and along the edges of The Knapp, where garden waste is sometimes unfortunately dumped.

Interestingly, the survey found four species associated with "Improved Grassland". In ecology, "improved" usually means the land was treated for agriculture, making it less valuable for diverse wildlife but better for grazing.