Food Forests Are Vibrant Places With Hundreds Of Plants. It’s A Place For Food Growing, Wildlife & People. Enjoy Our Community Food Forest Garden.
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In this video we consider the incredible potential of a community food forest. Just take a look at the example of the Sidmouth Community Food Forest, that nestles in a corner of a sports field, not far from the tranquil River Sid in the Byes. Our initiative showcases how a dedicated group can transform green spaces into a vibrant, productive ecosystem that benefits both local residents and wildlife
Ambitious Goals in our Community Food Forest Garden Video
The Sidmouth Community Food Forest was established with a clear and ambitious goal: to create a thriving orchard and a diverse food forest for the whole community. It’s a place where edible plants are grown in a way that mimics natural woodland, providing a sustainable source of food while enhancing biodiversity. This approach is highly relevant for UK gardeners and councils looking to make a positive impact on their local environment and food security.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this project is the sheer variety of plant life it supports, demonstrating what’s possible even in our climate. Imagine wandering through a space where you can find fragrant mint, not just for tea but also as a vital attraction for pollinators like bees, which are so crucial to our gardens. You’ll also see robust perennial kale, a hardy and long-lasting crop that provides continuous harvests. Beneath the impressive, sculptural cardoons, you’ll discover the sweet surprise of red and white Italian strawberries, perfectly demonstrating how multiple layers of edible plants can coexist and flourish.
The diversity doesn’t stop there. This food forest also cultivates familiar favourites like tomatoes, showing how even common garden plants can thrive within a forest system. Interestingly, even plants we might consider ‘weeds,’ like nettles, are valued for the shelter and protection they offer to beneficial insects, highlighting a more holistic approach to gardening. Look out for the towering Jerusalem artichokes, a great root crop, alongside peas and buckwheat, all contributing to the edible bounty. Even rambling roses are integrated, adding beauty while their hips can provide food for wildlife. The haws, in particular, are expected to be a magnet for winter thrushes, showcasing the food forest’s role in supporting local fauna. And don’t forget the hops, gracefully climbing skyward, adding to the lush, productive canopy.
A Vibrant Community Of People
Beyond the incredible plants, the true essence of the Sidmouth Community Food Forest lies in its vibrant community involvement. It’s a powerful reminder that food forests are as much about cultivating connections between people as they are about growing food. The project thrives on the collective effort of volunteers, with individuals, families, and various groups coming together to plant, tend, and harvest. We regularly welcome scouts, the local primary school and host “Open Garden Days” for charities This collaborative spirit is something all UK gardeners can embrace, whether through joining an existing project or starting their own. You don’t need a garden of your own when you have a community food forest.
This inspiring initiative wouldn’t be possible without the tireless dedication of its volunteers and the crucial support from the Sidmouth Town Council and EDDC. Their combined efforts have created a truly sustainable and enriching space, proving that with community spirit and a love for gardening, we can cultivate spaces that feed us, connect us, and benefit the natural world around us.
Community Food Forest Garden Video
For a visual tour, you can see the forest in action in our video.
Our Open Afternoon is on Sunday July 27th from 2-5 pm at the Community Food Forest, Byes Lane Sidmouth EX109QX
