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”
Tag Archives: sustainability
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.
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”
GoodGym @MOP 19/3/25 πββοΈ
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 πββοΈ”
Wood Firing: The Firing Process Part I
At Meadow Orchard, weβre excited to harvest our yellow London Clay for pottery, perfect for low-temperature wood-fired ceramics. The site, once tennis courts, is rich in clay and ideal for sustainable, locally sourced materials. Our permaculture ethos aligns with using local sustainable materials. We’ve built a clay roundhouse, a natural puddled clay pond, a clay oven, a clay rocket stove and now pottery feels like the next step. In spring, weβll begin harvesting and testing the clay with local artists and ceramicists. Early test results are promising, and we canβt wait to share the process. Get in touch if youβd like to join us on this creative journey!
Transition Towns Relaunch @MOP π«
Transition Town Crouch End & Finsbury Park Our volunteers, along with our friends at Edible Landscapes London and Wolves Lane are helping to relaunch Transition Town Crouch End and Finsbury Park! Come along to find out more! We’ll be sharing a hot soup, please feel free to bring food. Hear an intro, and chat aboutContinue reading “Transition Towns Relaunch @MOP π«”
Goodgym @MOP 19/3/25 πββοΈ
Do good and keep fit We’re welcoming GoodGym Haringey back to Meadow Orchard on Wednesday 19th March! Goodgym Haringey at Meadow OrchardDate: Wednesday 19th March 2025Time: 7.00-8.00pm Some swift spadework On this visit we are going to start digging a clay pit to harvest some of our beautiful London clay for making straw clay, clayContinue reading “Goodgym @MOP 19/3/25 πββοΈ”
Companion Plants for a Thriving Garden
Nasturtiums are a vibrant and versatile addition to any garden, offering beauty, benefits for pollinators, and edible delights. Their bright red, orange, and yellow blooms attract bees and ladybirds while deterring pests like aphids. Easy to grow from seed, they thrive in poor soil and require little maintenance. Both the flowers and leaves add a peppery kick to salads, while the seeds can be used as a spicy seasoning. Join our Gardening Club WhatsApp group to sow nasturtiums, share tips, and enjoy a bountiful harvest together. Sign up today and bring colour, flavour, and biodiversity to your garden!
Nasturtiums: A Beautiful and Beneficial Addition to the Garden
Nasturtiums are a vibrant and versatile addition to any garden, offering beauty, benefits for pollinators, and edible delights. Their bright red, orange, and yellow blooms attract bees and ladybirds while deterring pests like aphids. Easy to grow from seed, they thrive in poor soil and require little maintenance. Both the flowers and leaves add a peppery kick to salads, while the seeds can be used as a spicy seasoning. Join our Gardening Club WhatsApp group to sow nasturtiums, share tips, and enjoy a bountiful harvest together. Sign up today and bring colour, flavour, and biodiversity to your garden!
Join Our Gardening Club: Gardening Activities for March
Looking to deepen your gardening skills, grow your own food, or connect with others passionate about sustainability? Join our Gardening Club! We meet every Wednesday and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM to explore everything from composting and propagation to companion planting and no-dig gardening. Whether youβre a beginner or an experienced gardener, our site leaders will guide you through eco-friendly practices, irrigation methods, and sustainable gardening techniques. Sign up today and become part of a vibrant community, share tips, and enjoy hands-on learning in a fun and welcoming environment. Let’s grow together!