Evanston Fruit Orchard

The Evanston Orchard on Brewster is a community building strategy developed from the 2019-2029 Evanston Plan 

https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/planning/assets/File/Evanston%20Work%20Plan%20%5B2019%5D.pdf

PROJECT:

The plan is to use part of the grassy area on the south side of Brewster Avenue, east of Montgomery, for a community orchard. The space is 2.5 acres, so the project will be implemented in stages to ensure it will be sustainable. 

Benefits:

·        A way to connect neighbors

·        Beautiful green space for people to enjoy

·        Educational opportunity for people who want to learn how to grow their own food.

·        In three years, fresh food will be growing on trees, possibly hundreds of pounds. 

THE STEPS TO IMPLEMENTATION IN APRIL AND MAY 2021

1. Plan the Mini-Orchard

2. Research and order fruit trees and blue berry bushes, and pollinator plants

3. Purchase compost, amendments, fertilizers, rent equipment and tools for the project

4. Prepare the site (digging, soil amendments, fertilizers and signage 

5. Plant! (This will happen in stages over multiple days)

6. Purchase and add companion plants around trees and bushes

We know from Census data that 30% of Evanston residents have incomes below the poverty line. The orchard can serve as a permanent source of fresh, nutritious food.