Start a Garden
Not a garden in your neighbourhood? Want to start one? Please get in touch and we discuss how we can help! In the meantime here are some tips on how to get started:
- Survey neighbours to find out if they are interested
- Attend local groups/ events to discuss and recruit for the project
- Invite people to a meeting to discuss the idea. Use flyers, posters and social media.
Top tip! Make sure to get permission to take people’s contact details, so you can keep in touch with all interested people. It’s also a good to note down the skills and resources they can offer the project.
- Accessibility: Would everyone in your community be able to use the space? Can deliveries of materials be made to the site?
- Suitability for growing: Is it sunny? Is it sheltered from the wind? Is the soil contaminated? How could you access water?
- Local connections: Is the site close to local community groups/ centres that could get involved with the project? E.g schools or care homes
- Security: Is the project overlooked by neighbours? Is it likely to be safe from vandals?
- What will the space be used for? Just gardening or other activities e.g. social, fitness, choirs!
- Who will be using the space? What are their requirements?
- How will the garden be built? Are you relying on the community’s skills?
- Where will the materials come from? Do you need to raise money or source second hand?
You will have to source tools and materials. These can be fundraised for, borrowed (Edinburgh Tool Library) or sourced second hand. Make sure to have a plan for each community self-build session so participants can be directed in the tasks.
Top tip! Make sure to have refreshments on hand for participants. Perhaps plan a picnic, so everyone can eat together.
If you are interested in finding out more about any of the above or have your own top tips to add, please get in touch pippa@edibleestates.scot.
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