Community Garden
Behind the village pub, The Fox and Hounds and accessed through the car park in Patrick’s Orchard there is a long patch of land, behind the bungalows. Previously overgrown and full of general rubbish – tangled rusty wire, bits of cars and lumps of concrete – it had sat there unloved for a very long time; an eyesore of derelict waste ground!
However, if you go there now – you’ll find an amazing transformation. Over the last few years volunteers from the village and surroundings have worked together to make it into the beautiful and productive space that it has now become. We grow fruit, flowers and vegetables but that’s not all. We also care for the environment and are a valuable resource for people too! This is YOUR Community Garden!
Whether you have experience and expertise or would just like to have a go at growing ‘something’ or simply want to come and be out in the fresh air with something to do and in the company of friendly ‘others’. That’s all fine. Some of us know what we’re doing and have an overall plan for the good of the site but everyone’s voice is important, we try new ideas and suggestions are always welcome. We can always find you something to do – vigorous or genteel! We need both!
As far as possible – this is what we aim to do…Come and see!
- We grow fruit, flowers and veg without using chemicals that harm wildlife
- We have areas that we allow to grow for wildlife
- We repair, reuse and recycle and try to avoid plastic where possible
- We are installing our own rainwater storage
- We make our own compost, liquid plant foods and grow/utilise green manures
- We save our own seed/produce new plants on site.
- We are careful that we buy in only ethical/sustainable products where necessary (avoid peat etc.)
- We share the produce amongst ourselves and distribute surplus where we can.
- We provide specific space for village groups to use the site as needed – particularly children – just ask for what you have in mind – a plot for growing – wildlife projects – well-being areas…
…………………………………………………
*There is NO MEMBERSHIP required (though there is an accountable annually-elected committee)
*There is NO TIME-COMMITMENT – come when you can and do what you are able.
*Our regular slot is Saturday 2 – 4pm so do just come over if you are free..
*Donations are welcome to fund our essentials such as insurance, seeds etc.
*We are grateful for the continuing support of the village in terms of grants which have helped us to develop the site.
*The land is leased from Sovereign Vale and we are obliged to have gates for insurance and practical purposes but they are never locked!
WE ABIDE BY COVID 19 GOVERNMENT RESTRICTIONS – MANAGING OUR ACTIVITIES WITH EVERYONE’S HEALTH IN MIND. (Social distancing etc.)
We only ask that if you visit - you respect the site and leave it as you found it – or better!
We always need more volunteers!
As you can see from the photos below, we work hard and enjoy the fruits of our labour! Everyone is welcome to come and work with us, learn about organic methods of growing fruit and veg, have produce to take home, and make new friends too.
Print 