REDDITCH’S much-loved Headless Cross Community Orchard, is making its gardening debut at this year’s RHS Malvern Spring Festival in one of uts exciting new features, the Grow Zone.
The community orchard was planted by local residents in 2010, and, nestling close to the iconic water tower in Headless Cross, the urban green space has created its own culture, with seasonal events, outdoor games and beloved characters.
The orchard is also home to Worcestershire varieties of fruit trees from the Worcester Black Pear, Pershore Purple Plum, to the curious looking Catshead cooking apple.
Orchard volunteer, Alistair Waugh, said: “We’re delighted to be invited to RHS Malvern Spring Festival. It will be our chance to inspire other people who may be considering a community orchard.
“It’s been a real success story for us as the community has taken the orchard to its heart. People regularly sit and relax there, eat their lunch, let their kids play or walk the dog. In an urban setting like Headless Cross, having a green space to unwind and appreciate is vital.”
The Grow Zone is a horticultural experience by RHS Gold Medal winning gardener Jon Wheatley, while the Edible Beds Area has been curated by RHS medal winner and RHS Malvern Spring Festival Ambassador, Hannah Genders. A collection of raised beds, they’ll be filled with edible plants to showcase the ease of growing your own.
Head of RHS Malvern Spring Festival, Jane Furze said: “We’re really excited to be launching the Grow Zone this year.
“It is the place to go if you want to pick up some terrific gardening tips but also to enjoy what promises to be a great family day out. All levels of expertise are welcome, come along and see for yourself.”
RHS Malvern Spring Festival 2017 runs from Thursday, May 11 to Sunday, May 14. Adult tickets are £18 in advance while children (under 16) are free of charge.
For more information call 01684 584924 or visit www.rhsmalvern.co.uk
