What is a Food Forest?
A food forest is a sustainable, low-maintenance garden that mimics the structure of a natural forest but focuses on edible plants. Instead of rows of crops, it features multiple layers: tall canopy trees (like fruit trees), understory shrubs (such as berry bushes), herbaceous plants (herbs and vegetables), ground covers (strawberries or mint), vines, and root crops. This design creates a thriving ecosystem that produces food year-round while supporting wildlife and soil health.
The Oakville Food Forest in Kingsford Gardens Park aligns with HEN's mission to promote conservation and environmental stewardship. It provides free, fresh produce, enhances biodiversity, and builds resilience against climate challenges.
Why Food Forests Matter
Food forests are powerful tools for creating sustainable communities. They address key environmental and social needs:
Food Security
Provide accessible, nutritious food grown locally, reducing reliance on grocery stores and supporting self-sufficiency.
Climate Resilience
Trees and plants sequester carbon, improve soil structure, and conserve water, helping Halton adapt to changing weather patterns.
Biodiversity
Attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, creating habitats that support local wildlife and healthier ecosystems.
Community Building
Encourage collaboration through planting events, workshops, and harvesting, fostering connections among Halton residents.
Education
Offer hands-on learning about sustainable living, from soil science to permaculture principles.
Through initiatives like the Oakville Food Forest, HEN empowers residents to take action for a greener Halton.
How HEN Builds Food Forests
Our food forests are created using eco-friendly methods like the lasagna gardening technique, a no-dig approach that layers cardboard, soil, mulch, and straw to build fertile beds. This method suppresses weeds, enriches soil naturally, and minimizes disruption to the earth.
On July 12, 2025, over 30 volunteers, led by Nicola Jane of Grand River Food Forestry, planted dozens of trees, shrubs, and ground covers in the Oakville Food Forest. We select native and adapted species suited to Halton's climate, ensuring long-term success and low water needs.
​Pruning & Harvesting
Prune trees in late winter to promote healthy growth; harvest ripe produce to encourage more fruiting.
Pest Management
Encourage natural predators like birds and beneficial insects—avoid chemicals to protect pollinators.
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These steps not only maintain the forest but also teach valuable skills for home gardening.
Food forests are designed to be self-sustaining, but a little care goes a long way.
Here's how to keep them thriving:
Mulching
Apply organic mulch (e.g., leaves or wood chips) around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients as it decomposes.
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently, especially for young plants, to encourage strong roots.
Maintaining a
Food Forest
Fun for All Ages
Food forests are inclusive spaces for everyone!
Kids can explore layers of plants and discover hidden "treasures" like berries, while families learn together about nature's bounty.
Teens and adults can contribute through volunteering, gaining skills in conservation and stewardship.
Whether you're 5 or 55, there's a role for you in nurturing Halton's green future.
Get Involved with HEN's Food Forests
Join our community efforts to expand and care for food forests across Halton! Opportunities include:
Volunteering at planting events or maintenance days.
Participating in workshops on permaculture and sustainable gardening.
Harvesting and sharing produce to support local food security.
Earning high school volunteer hours while learning environmental skills.
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