Horticultural Strategy

Fostering vibrant gardens and communities

At Energy Garden, part of our mission is to create vibrant and sustainable green spaces that enrich both the environment and the community. Our horticultural strategy is a blueprint for working with communities to guide the cultivation, management and development of a diverse portfolio of gardens on London’s railways. This plan encompasses a range of initiatives that promote biodiversity, enhance soil quality, and create functional and beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Our Approach

1. Improving soil health

We implement techniques like crop rotation, composting, permaculture soil amendments, and ground cover to enrich the soil's microbial content and fertility.

2. Wildlife-friendly gardens

With a focus on wildlife, we plant native and biodiversity-friendly plants and establish habitats such as dead hedges to provide a haven for local wildlife.

3. Enhancing infrastructure

We're dedicated to improving the infrastructure of our gardens. This includes upgrading benches, raised beds, pathways, and compost bins to enhance functionality and prepare for the future.

4. Cultivating food sources

Our commitment extends to growing more annual and perennial food sources within our gardens, contributing to local food sustainability.

5. Creating beautiful spaces

We follow a specific timeline for seeding, providing support to Engagement Officers, and utilising flower and ground cover seeds to fill any gaps, resulting in fuller and more visually appealing spaces for the community.

6. Supporting volunteers

To nurture our volunteers' gardening interests, we offer learning sessions on composting, soil health, and seed saving across our gardens. Our goal is to empower volunteers with the knowledge and confidence to become leaders in the garden community.

A Year in an Energy Garden

Join us for community gardening in London

If you’re passionate about gardening, community, sustainability, or just want to learn a new skill, join us in transforming London's overground. Together, we can make a lasting positive impact on our city and its people.