Straw Bale Raised Bed Gardens: Instant Raised Bed Gardening

Our Garden Plans As we develop our Kitchen Garden area of Meadow Orchard we are integrating a number of different methods of growing. Our next plan is to build a straw bale raised bed. A fantastic method of growing and building an easy and low cost raised bed! Easy Raised Beds Gardening is an incrediblyContinue reading “Straw Bale Raised Bed Gardens: Instant Raised Bed Gardening”

Community Composting @ MOP: Growing Stronger Together

At Meadow Orchard Community Garden (MOP), community composting plays a vital role in creating a sustainable, vibrant environment. By contributing kitchen scraps, garden waste, and organic materials, neighbors can help create nutrient-rich compost that enriches the soil. MOPโ€™s composting program connects individuals, fosters shared responsibility, and reduces landfill waste. Whether youโ€™re a seasoned gardener or new to composting, MOP welcomes everyone to participate. Visit MOP on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 12-4 pm to drop off your compost. Together, we nurture the earth, promote healthy growth, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Learn more about how you can get involved today!

Hugelbeds at Meadow Orchard

If you are familiar with our Blog, you might have read our post about Hugelkulture. Most of our raised beds at MOP feature an element of hugelkultur, but most are what is known as below ground hugel beds. Below Ground Hugel In this style of bed a pit is dug out (the soil put toContinue reading “Hugelbeds at Meadow Orchard”

Ecological Succession in Soil Regeneration

Ecological succession is the natural process by which ecosystems recover and regenerate after disturbances. It begins with pioneering species like lichens and mosses, which help break down rock and enrich the soil. As the soil thickens, grasses, small plants, and eventually shrubs and trees establish themselves. Over time, this process leads to the formation of mature ecosystems such as forests or grasslands. Ecological succession enhances soil fertility, prevents erosion, restores biodiversity, and aids in carbon sequestration. Human interventions, such as replanting native species and adding soil amendments, can accelerate this process, helping to restore degraded land and promote ecological balance.

Beekeeping – Spring ’25

The Bees are back in townWe welcomed bees and beekeeping back to Meadow Orchard in Spring ’23 and are happy to say that bees (and beekeepers) are really flourishing! With the cherry and plum trees blossoming we are delighted to be rewarded by the sight of emerging bees foraging in the warm spring sunshine afterContinue reading “Beekeeping – Spring ’25”

Our Ongoing Garden Plans

This proposal outlines a series of suggested enhancements for the Meadow Orchard Project garden space, aiming to create a friendly, safe, and accessible environment for all. We seek to share our love for nature, food growing, and learning, while fostering a vibrant and diverse community space. By embracing creativity, arts, and music, we aim toContinue reading “Our Ongoing Garden Plans”

Meadow Orchard Poster

We’ve designed this A4 printable poster featuring beautiful illustrations by Wildlife Artists Richard Allen and our very own Annalou. If you would like to print one of these posters and help spread the word about our amazing community garden, feel free to download, print and display in your favourite cafe, library or school. If youContinue reading “Meadow Orchard Poster”

Mad About Mint

The Soothing Power of Mint At Meadow Orchard we are rather partial to a mint tea when we’re taking a break from working in the garden. This year we’re propagating some beautiful varieties, thanks to the mint nursery – Mad About Mint for supplying the lovely healthy and beautifully fragrant plug plants! Our Mint VarietiesContinue reading “Mad About Mint”

GoodGym @MOP 19/3/25 ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ

GoodGym back for their sixth volunteering activity at MOP We received an email the other week from GoodGym. A request from group coordinator Euclides for GoodGym to do a volunteering session at Meadow Orchard. Clearly the memory of spiced cider and ambient mince pies from their last session must have had an impact but toContinue reading “GoodGym @MOP 19/3/25 ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ”