Gardens & Horticulture
Fostering vibrant gardens and communities
At Energy Garden, part of our mission is to create vibrant and sustainable green spaces that enrich both the environment and the community.
Our Approach
Our horticultural strategy is a blueprint for working with communities to guide the cultivation, management and development of a diverse portfolio of gardens on London’s railways. This plan encompasses a range of initiatives that promote biodiversity, enhance soil quality, and create functional and beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Horticultural strategy is set with the group at each garden and then overseen by our horticulture lead Beatrice Dandy.
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We implement techniques like crop rotation, composting, permaculture soil amendments, and ground cover to enrich the soil's microbial content and fertility.
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With a focus on wildlife, we plant native and biodiversity-friendly plants and establish habitats such as dead hedges to provide a haven for local wildlife.
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We're dedicated to improving the infrastructure of our gardens. This includes upgrading benches, raised beds, pathways, and compost bins to enhance functionality and prepare for the future.
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Our commitment extends to growing more annual and perennial food sources within our gardens, contributing to local food sustainability.
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We follow a specific timeline for seeding, providing support to Engagement Officers, and utilising flower and ground cover seeds to fill any gaps, resulting in fuller and more visually appealing spaces for the community.
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To nurture our volunteers' gardening interests, we offer learning sessions on composting, soil health, and seed saving across our gardens. Our goal is to empower volunteers with the knowledge and confidence to become leaders in the garden community.
A Year in an Energy Garden
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“EG gives me a way to contribute to my local community and feel connected with people living in the same area. The regular sessions are a great prompt to spend some time outside, and make lasting friendships locally too”
Energy Garden Volunteer
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“It makes me proud to be part of the community and to help keep the station area a nice place to pass through”
Energy Garden Volunteer
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“Volunteering with energy garden has made me feel like I am doing something purposeful within my community and given me the opportunity to meet new people and learn new things”
Energy Garden Volunteer
From the blog
