North London Master Gardeners

The programme

The North London Master Gardener network is part of a three year pilot programme managed by national charity, Garden Organic.

How does it work?

North London Master Gardeners in action

Garden Organic has the pleasure of recruiting community volunteers, Master Gardeners, who we train and actively support to promote the benefits of growing your own.

Master Gardeners offer local growing advice through community growing spaces, events, talks, stalls, articles, and other innovative ways that suit their skills and lifestyle. Master Gardeners also mentor 10 households each, offering 12 months free support to those just starting to grow their own food. It’s very exciting.

Read about the Master Gardener role – and how you can get involved

Click here for case studies

What’s the point?

There’s huge interest in growing food. The public’s demand for allotments, advice, and support have increased massively thanks to high profile campaigns, food and health concerns, community growing networks, and a changing society intent on learning how to grow their own local, organic produce.

Master Gardeners have the important – and exciting role of supporting these interested people. To offer them reasons to grow food, remove barriers against, teach growing skills and offer support.

Master Gardeners believe that everyone can grow their own food, whether in a garden or allotment, on their balcony, a windowsill or on communal land. Whatever the crop, whatever the space, food growing is important for a healthy diet and lifestyle. It saves money, teaches skills, and brings people together.

Who’s involved?

We’re very grateful for the support of Edible Islington, the council’s campaign for community food growing in partnership with Groundwork, Capital Growth, Sustain, and St Luke’s Parochial Trust.

Edible Islington has given out small and large grants for community growing projects across the borough. There will soon be news available about the progress that funded groups are making towards their exciting new projects.

Several Master Gardeners support Edible Islington projects with sustained training and advice. Others work with equally important spaces such as Culpeper Community Garden and King Henry’s Walk Garden. Master Gardeners are not imposed on the local growing scene, but come from it. They bring together people and organisations that recognise the importance of passing on growing skills and passion.

Get in touch to register your charity, business, or group