The Simple Beauty and Relaxing Nature of Reeds

Thoughts and photos from Yorkshire’s beautiful wetlands

Winter reeds in golden sunlight (Photo by Author)

A friend once asked me what my favourite plants were. I think they were expecting me to say lavender or cosmos or some other pollinator-friendly flowers. Or perhaps mightly oak trees for the sheer diversity of life they support. They were most surprised when I answered reeds!

But my love of wetland habitats, and reedbeds in particular, goes back a long way.

Wetland and reeds at Potteric Carr, South Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

I grew up close to the Humber Estuary in North Lincolnshire, England. From a very young age my Dad, who loved being outdoors in nature, would drag me out at ridiculously early times to go birdwatching around the mudflats and reedbeds along the estuary.

I used to complain loudly about being dragged out on freezing cold mornings (I never was a morning person). But I always got excited when we found interesting birds and other wildlife to watch (and there are lots around the Humber). And I developed a love of wetland and coastal habitats that has stayed with me to this day.

Extensive summer reedbeds beside the Humber Estuary, with the Humber Bridge in the background (Photo by Author)

When I moved to York, I was delighted to find several wonderful wetland nature reserves within easy reach. So regular visits to sites with reedbeds have always been an important part of my life.

Reedbed at Fairburn Ings, West Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

Reeds at North Cave Wetlands, East Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

Reeds (Phragmites australis) are actually a type of grass adapted to grow in damp and wet habitats. They are strong plants that spread by rhizomes underground to form large beds. Left to their own devices reedbeds eventually fill up with the dead plant material from previous years until they are dry enough for other plants to colonise. Thus reedbeds are part of an ecological succession and are eventually taken over by shrubs and trees.

Dark winter reeds against a blue winter sky (Photo by Author)

Not just great places for nature, reedbeds have also been very useful to us. In the past, they were extensively planted and managed to produce thatch. These days artificial reedbeds are frequently used in water treatment works, where they help to remove pollutants from wastewater.

Tophill Low Nature Reserve and Water Treatment Site, East Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

In spring reeds have glossy green leaves, but from late summer onwards they turn into a lovely golden brown colour. This is when they produce their tall feathery flowers — a beautiful sight on a sunny autumn or winter day.

Flowering reeds in late summer at Blacktoft Sands, East Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

Golden reeds on a sunny winter morning at Staveley Nature Reserve, North Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

I always loved being among reeds. There is something about the soft swooshing sound as they sway in a gentle breeze that I find so comforting and relaxing.

And reedbeds are mysterious — you never know what might be hiding just out of sight. Perhaps an otter, or a frog, or a water rail, or even a bittern! Being among reeds really does feel like being out in nature to me — a feeling I never tire of.

A secretive channel through the reeds at Potteric Carr, South Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

A marsh harrier hunting over a reedbed at Blacktoft Sands, East Yorkshire (Photo by Author)

Flowering reeds and spiderwebs on a dewy winter morning (Photo by Author)

I think reeds are frequently overlooked and highly under-appreciated plants. But I, for one, am very grateful for the peace and quiet beauty that they bring to my life.

Photo by Author

You can also read my article about the fantastic Humber Bridge

[embed]The Humber Bridge My deep connection with this magnificent structuremedium.com

You can see more of my photographs here at Photo4Me, where you can also buy prints in various formats.