The grass bank was sown on acid sand over rubble infill in 1986. The total number of plant species at Stave Hill at the outset was around 40. Over time, the biodiversity has been greatly increased by management practices and new arrivals, transported by birds and on the wind. Plants create micro habitats for insects and soil living organisms (worms), which in turn contribute to producing the soil. Both of these are a food source for birds. Even fruit eaters such as blackcaps rely on aphids and larvae to feed their young. The grasses and other plants are cut twice a year, and the cuttings raked off to prevent the buildup of nutrients. This system is based on a traditional hay cutting regime.