This June, we’re shining a spotlight on an inspiring community-led initiative bringing more trees, learning, and biodiversity to Edinburgh’s greenspaces. Meet the Friends of Inch Park Community Orchard and Tree Care Project, a brilliant example of what happens when local ideas are brought into action with thoughtful planning.

The project expands on earlier efforts, including a 10-tree distributed orchard guided by The Orchard Project, reflecting FOIP’s ongoing commitment to improving local biodiversity and connecting people with their park.

Working with local people, Liberton Primary School, The City of Edinburgh Council, and a dedicated team of artists and educators. Local environmental artists Jonathan Baxter and Sarah Gittins, co-founders of Every Inch Matters, are leading creative and educational activities that make this project more than just planting trees – it’s about nurturing a deeper relationship with nature and fostering community resilience.

The project is already bringing life and learning to Inch Park. Over two years, the team will:

• Plant a 30-tree compact community orchard and a further 60 fruit or nut trees in and around the park.
• Add 250 assorted trees to enhance the park’s biodiversity and canopy cover.
• Host 24 community and school sessions on tree care, pruning, and ecological understanding.

Workshops with Liberton Primary School pupils have sparked creativity and learning, from making orchard-inspired prints to creating tree identification booklets. Local events like tree care sessions and community gatherings will strengthen connections between people and the park.

One of the project’s unique features is its blend of practical tree care with arts-based engagement, encouraging participants of all ages to connect with trees through creativity and knowledge.

What’s next?

The vision for Inch Park is just getting started. In the coming months, FOIP and their partners will:

• Finalise the design for the community orchard and identify other locations for planting, shaped by feedback from the local community.
• Continue workshops and tree planting with Liberton Primary and other local groups.
• Host more events for community members to learn about tree care and share their ideas for the park’s future.

This project is more than just planting trees – it’s about creating a space where everyone can grow their connection with nature, learn new skills, and celebrate the beauty of Inch Park. They have a Facebook page where you can keep updated with their progress Friends of Inch Park | Facebook If you’re interested in joining the journey, Friends of Inch Park welcome all enquiries and support. Email the project team at [email protected] to find out how to get involved.