Community Orchard – Tree planting

Sunday 15 March 2026: Tree planting in the new Community Orchard:

(Postponed from 15 February due to waterlogged site)

SSB has been given funding towards the new orchard and has taken delivery of approximately 150 orchard trees of varying sizes and types (apples, pears, quinces, plums, mulberries, medlars and nuts). Having been necessary to postpone the initial planting due to very wet conditions on the ground in February, please come and get involved on this very special occasion!

There will be lots to do, for all ages and levels of exertion, from planting, mulching and setting up stakes and tree guards – so it would be wonderful to see as many people there as possible.

• 10am: arrival time:  please head towards the gazebo towards the bottom of the field; 
• 10.30am: welcome and introduction, demonstrations and project update  and  from
• 10.45am onward: Tree planting (later arrivals will be allocated to a team who will show them exactly what to do);
• 3.00pm approximately: finish.

This is the last opportunity for our trees to go in the ground, so whatever the weather we will go ahead, supported by the Sustainable South Brent Wood Group – if the entrance to the field is under water, you will be directed towards the gate of the adjacent Hope Wood field.

Do bring a spade if you can. Wellies, waterproofs, warm clothing, thick gloves, and something waterproof to sit on are strongly advised, along with snacks and flasks of hot drinks. The plan is for this to be the first of many work-days and gatherings on the field throughout this year.

If you are not able to help but want to see what’s going on – you are welcome to come and have a look, and a chat.

No dogs on site please. Children, however, are welcome to come and help to plant a tree, which they can watch grow to maturity as they do themselves!

Access to the Market Garden field site – on foot or by bike, but absolutely no cars – is along Palstone Lane then left down Portford Lane to a signposted entrance on the left. – What3Words: extend.showed.spreading.

For more information on the Community Market Garden and Orchard project, see https://ssb.org.uk/projects/market-garden-orchard/.

If you are interested in helping on this day or for further information, please email marketgarden@ssb.org.uk.