A Resurgence of Orchards

Not so long ago, orchards of all kinds of fruit trees were a common sight in the fields and gardens of England. Many have been lost, but now people are once again planting their own orchards. They are appearing around housing, in parks, school grounds, fields on the edge of towns and on village greens.

Empowering Communities through Orchard Cultivation

Sussex leads in planting orchards for the future, thanks in part to the ongoing efforts of Brighton Permaculture Trust and our dedicated partners. Our Community & School Orchards programme is a holistic service. An initiative that focuses on transforming communities by integrating hands-on experiences, educational programmes, and the establishment of community orchards.

Orchards can be any size – we often plant small orchards of eight trees but there are no lower or upper limits. There are thirty Sussex apple varieties to choose from, and lots from elsewhere. You won’t find most of them in the shops, but you can grow them yourself.

The benefits of Orchard Planting

• Locally produced, healthy food for years
• Beautiful spaces for relaxation, community, and enjoyment
• Habitats for diverse wildlife, enhancing biodiversity
• Opportunities to grow unique apple varieties and other delightful fruits & nuts
• Contribution to reducing carbon footprint through lowered food miles and carbon sequestration
• Natural temperature regulation, reduced air pollution, and effective water runoff control