Culloden residents see start of ambitious community growing project
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Culloden residents will be able to pick tasty and nutritious treats from a range of community spaces if a plan by the area’s community council is successful.
Working with Incredible Edible Inverness and with the support of Highland Council, the community council will take the first step in a long-term eco-project to plant trees, flowers, fruit trees and bushes and vegetables in agreed areas.
The aim is to encourage pollinating insects, to enhance the beauty of the area and to provide free fruit and vegetables for the community in years to come.
Six fruit tree varieties, including Victoria plums, discovery and red pippin apples and conference pears, were planted last week at a site on the edge of Culloden Park.
Smaller fruits could appear as early as next year but will have to be picked off to encourage strong growth, so it could be three years before the trees produce enough usable fruit for local residents.
Highland Council and the community council are joint funding the first stage of the project.
The Incredible Edible Inverness group is providing stakes and wire and helping with the planting.
Community council member Barbara Lennox, who is leading the project, said: “One of the lovely things about living in this area is the amount of mature trees.
“We want to continue that tradition for future generations but also to provide free fruit and veg for the local community as well as blossoms for pollinators.
“If you, or anyone you know, is interested in getting involved and even if you only have a spare half hour every now and then, get in touch with Culloden Community Council.
“This ‘growing thing’ can be a way to develop social contacts, get out in the fresh air and enjoy some light exercise.
“If you’d like help to develop and tend a community patch we can help you get started.”
She added: “I’d like to thank Howdens Garden Centre, who gave a discount on the trees.”
