The Role of Urban Fruit Tree Orchards in Food Security
Urban fruit tree orchards contribute to food security by providing free, fresh fruit to city residents, particularly in low-income neighborhoods and food deserts. These community-managed orchards feature apple, pear, plum, and citrus trees, which produce fruit for decades with minimal maintenance.
Orchards are often planted in parks, schoolyards, and vacant lots, making fruit accessible to anyone who wants to harvest it. They teach participants about sustainable agriculture and nutrition, with many offering workshops on pruning, harvesting, and preserving fruit. Surplus fruit is donated to food banks and shelters. Urban orchards also improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and provide habitat for pollinators. By turning underused urban space into productive food sources, these orchards help build more resilient, self-sufficient communities.