Grow your own in Weston

The garden was designed by local Neighbourhood Wardens using ideas and suggestions from the local community. It aims to provide residents of all ages with a safe space to develop green fingers and have a go at growing their own plants and vegetables. Duncan Reade, Community Engagement Horticulture worker from Mayfield Nurseries runs free weekly workshops every Thursday between 1.30pm and 4.30pm (weather permitting) for local people to drop in and learn gardening tips and skills.

It is the latest community garden to be created in a council neighbourhood because of the Plants For People project. Residents in Shirley, Sholing, Thornhill, Millbrook and Holyrood have already been supported to learn horticulture skills and tend to their communal gardens: growing their own produce, enhancing the look of local neighbourhoods, and strengthening community spirit at the same time.

Now, residents in Weston – many of whom don’t have a garden or access to any quality outdoor space – can also enjoy the many benefits of gardening. As well as brightening up local urban areas, getting involved with the community garden can also help to keep you fit and active and improve mental wellbeing – particularly significant at a time of lockdown.

Plants For People is a partnership between Decent Neighbourhoods and Mayfield Nurseries. The Canberra Towers project also received a grant from National Mind (Mental Health Charity).

For more details about any of the Plants For People community gardening projects and weekly growing workshops across the city look online or on Facebook. Please contact Duncan Reade if you would like to attend. All the sessions follow social distancing guidelines and are open to all ages. No gardening experience is required and all tools and equipment are provided.