“After 7 years of searching, I acquired an acre of land between Westport and Barrington, that would become my dream food forest garden, and host a variety of trees and shrubs that would encourage a diverse eco-system and provide food. I chose to plant fruit and nuts such as walnuts, hazel, sweet chestnuts, apples, pears, cherries, plums, greengages, and various berries, along with some non-edible trees including oak, beech, lime, and dog rose. Most of the plants were donated by kind friends and clients, wishing to rehome, and I bought the remaining few from forest garden expert Martin Crawford thanks to a generous local resident.  

The site is growing nicely, we now have a pond and various structures including two reclaimed sheds. Mostly donated by those with stories attached to them to remind them of neighbours and friends.  

This winter we’ve focused on clearing around trees and plants to stop the grass suffocating them and removed grass from wildflower areas to reduce the nutrient content of the soil. We’re also expanding a newly planted hedgerow.  The neighbouring sheep have taken a liking to puddling in the little pond - great fun if you don’t mind getting mucky!” 

If you wish to donate or rehome any plants to the project or get involved, your help would be greatly received. Just contact the climate team and we’ll put you in touch with Kristina. Even if you just want somewhere peaceful to sit, everyone is welcome.   

Thanks, Kristina, for sharing your very exciting project with us! 

If you are interested in creating a forest food garden check out Martin Crawford’s design manual at the Agroforestry website.