Volunteers help grow Carndonagh’s edible neighbourhoods with fruit bush planting

Volunteers were out in the spring sunshine helping to plant fruit bushes as part of a joint initiative between Spraoi agus Spórt and Carndonagh Tidy Towns.

The group came together to plant blackcurrant, gooseberry, raspberry, and redcurrant bushes at the bottom of Bridge Street, adding both food and biodiversity to the town.

This community planting forms part of the People’s Transition: Carndonagh Edible Neighbourhoods approach – an action promoting food growing in public spaces for local people to enjoy.

The Carndonagh Tidy Towns identified spaces across the town where edible plants could be cultivated, with people encouraged to forage through an edible trail.

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In line with Carndonagh’s Biodiversity Action Plan, the project extends planting into existing green features to strengthen wildlife corridors and support habitat connectivity. The newly-planted fruit bushes will provide early blossom for pollinators and later fruit and shelter for birds and small mammals, enhancing local biodiversity.

Early spring is the perfect time of year for planting fruit bushes, giving them a chance to establish strong roots before summer growth begins.

If you are interested in growing your own fruit bushes, Carndonagh Garden Centre and Nursery have a workshop on Saturday 7th March at 11am, which will welcome back horticulturist Kate O'Callaghan to lead a hands-on demonstration about planting fruit bushes that thrive in Inishowen's climate.

Places can be booked here, or contact carlene@spraoiagussport.ie.