The field we call successional shrubland is likely abandoned pasture, and probably never produced hay. Unlike the other fields that had been mowed at least annually for hay, this field is well on its way toward reverting back to forest.
This meadow is being overtaken by highbush blueberry and other shrubs.
Without this mowed path, the thicket would soon become impassable.
Aspens are frontrunners in the race to return an old field to forest.
The fence around the base of this winterberry keeps it from being eaten alive.
The lively red berries of winterberry shrubs show to best effect after leaf fall.
Highbush blueberries turn scarlet in fall.
Interrupted Fern (Osmunda intermedia)
Blueberry bushes loaded with ripe berries invite bears as well as people.
The wild raisin in this field has been carefully pruned by deer. Fortunately it is tall enough to survive and produce berries.
Many insects are attracted to our native Spiraea alba var. latifolia.
Elderberry, Sambucus canadensis
Older blueberry bushes often display attractive gnarled and twisting branches.
Arrowwood, Viburnum dentatum
Sheep laurel, Kalmia angustifolia
Chokecherry, Prunus virginiana
Arrowwoods and chokecherries are blooming in this field.