Food Forests

Food forests, which serve as multi-layered public orchards, play a vital role in enhancing food security in the UK by placing free food at the heart of communities. These community food forests typically consist of seven distinct layers of plants that provide various benefits. These layers include: 

- Canopy trees, such as apple and other large fruit trees  

- Sub-canopy trees, for example, dwarf fruit trees  

- Shrubs, like raspberries and blackberries  

- Herbaceous plants, including rhubarb  

- Ground cover, for example, strawberries  

- Root crops, possibly Jerusalem artichoke  

- Climbing plants throughout the other layers, like kiwi berries  

The benefits of food forests extend beyond just providing food; they enhance community cohesion, promote biodiversity, and contribute to urban greening.

Food forests are crucial for addressing food security in the UK, especially given the current challenges around self-sufficiency. Currently, the UK only produces about 60% of the food it consumes domestically with imports accounting for approximately 80% of fruit and 50% of vegetables (DEFRA) that we consume. In 2023-2024, nearly three million people were living in households that relied on food banks. 

In light of this food crisis, the benefits of food forests in promoting community food forests are particularly exciting. If local residents can access free food from a food forest in a local park instead of always needing to visit a supermarket, even occasionally, it significantly enhances food security in the UK and fosters stronger local communities.

The benefits of food forests are numerous and impactful for the community. They provide free food for local residents, support wildlife—especially valuable pollinators, and serve as an educational resource that helps people learn more about food production. Additionally, community food forests act as a hub for local events and gatherings, fostering a sense of connection. Importantly, they also contribute to food security in the UK by reducing the carbon impact associated with transporting food from supermarkets.

Micro Forests For Change partners with garden designer and community food projects expert Jack Wallington to plant community food forests that highlight the benefits of food forests for local ecosystems. Jack brings his expertise on species selection and the best cultivars suited to the planting conditions. In 2026, we collaborated to establish three food forests across Maidstone, contributing to enhanced food security in the UK.

To find out more about the benefits of community food forests and their role in enhancing food security in the UK, email tim@microforests.co.uk.