Forest Hill
Forest Hill is a trove of planters at a bustling station in Lewisham. The garden was established in July 2016 with great effort and support from Forest Hill Society.
Over the past growing seasons, the largest planter, front and centre of the station has become established with drought-tolerant perennials such as various Euphorbia and Achillea species to handle the changing summer temperatures. The planters cover a total of 60m2 and also consist of flowering seasonal bulbs, nasturtiums and lobelia. Behind the bike shed on the platform is a cosy nook with climbing clematis and a fragrant herb bed.
The garden and planters present coincide with the community group’s aims, entailing improving air pollution in this section of the South Circular Road, and providing a greener corridor following up to the Horniman Museum and Gardens.
Sessions are ad-hoc, as and when the garden needs it.
Forest Hill Station Garden at a glance:
Size: 60m2 trackside space
Built elements: raised beds on the platform and planters in the car park
Horticultural description: This garden is focused on maximising growing potential in the many planters inside and outside the station; this means focusing on soil health and doubling down on watering in the hotter months. This garden includes some productive apple trees with delicious fruit tucked away on the platform, see if you can find them!
Edibles: apples, rosemary, sage
Get involved: Ad-hoc sessions, organised via email and WhatsApp.
Engagement officer: Anna Crispino
Contact: anna@energygarden.org.uk to get involved!