Earlier this year, after several years of dreaming, planning and persevering, Finstock for Nature planted 20 mixed fruit trees in a shared village space despite the cold and wet winter. With the help of funding from WODC, residents of all ages turned out, spades in hand eager to bring their community orchard to life.
“This has been a long journey,” said one of the organisers. “But holding on to the value of how much we need to recreate this important habitat for wildlife and for the people living in the village has kept us going.”
What began as a green idea turned into something far more powerful: a way to support local biodiversity, create access to fresh, local fruit and strengthen connections between neighbours. Now, as the trees begin to take root, the village has something lasting, an orchard that will grow with them for years to come.
Want to plant a community orchard in your area?
Community orchards bring multiple benefits. They provide free fruit close to home, support pollinators and other wildlife, improve local air quality and create natural meeting points where people can connect. There is no limit to the number of trees you can plant, but you must plant a minimum of five trees.
If you’d like to start something similar in your area, you can find more information on our website to help assist you with the application and get you growing!
For further assistance or if you have a specific query regarding Community Orchards, please contact the Ecology Team at ecology@westoxon.gov.uk
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