29 Sep 2026
Celebrity chef and Bake Off champion Matty Edgell has launched this year’s Veolia Orchard scheme, inviting schools and community groups in St Albans to apply for either five fruit trees or 10 strawberry plants.
Since 2022, 95 fruit trees and 190 strawberry plants have been planted across 36 schools and one community organisation in St Albans. Each orchard is part of an environmental network increasing biodiversity in local areas, with the recipients benefiting from access to home-grown produce and hands-on learning through nature.
The launch of this year’s campaign was at Beaumont School, where Veolia celebrated its Orchard Bakes competition, which invited previous orchard recipients to create original recipes inspired by the fruits of their growing orchards.
Beaumont had been crowned the winner for their chutney recipe, made from apples and pears grown in their orchard, donated by Veolia in 2023.
From now until Friday November 20, schools and other community organisations can apply for their very own orchard. Successful candidates will hear back in December with the delivery of plants taking place in spring 2027.
Pascal Hauret, chief operating officer, commercial and municipal at Veolia said: “The continued growth of Veolia Orchard in St Albans reflects our commitment to environmental education and community engagement.”
Cllr Edgar Hill, SADC lead for recycling added: “We are delighted to support the fantastic Veolia Orchard scheme and welcome its return for another year.
“The scheme has worked with an amazing 36 schools throughout the district over the past four years, encouraged young people to take an active interest in the local environment and improved many green spaces.
“I would urge community groups as well as schools to consider making an application this year for fruit trees or strawberry plants. Don’t miss out.”
Each orchard comes with a free limited supply of Pro-Grow, Veolia’s nutrient-rich soil conditioner
made from recycled garden waste, to support early growth of the saplings and seedlings.
Applicants can also opt for an interactive session with Veolia’s experts, who guide participants
through planting whilst sharing insights on the long-term benefits to communities and the
environment.
For more information and to apply, visit veolia.co.uk/veolia-orchard
