Welcome to Horfield Organic Community Orchard growing fruit, community, learning, and wellbeing since 1998
Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) is an inspiring, pioneering, local food project that put down roots 26 years ago on an allotment site behind HMP Bristol. The orchard is home to more than 80 different fruiting trees. It was planned to show that local grown fruit can be eaten and enjoyed all year round.
HOCO is a grassroots example of resilience in a world living with climate chaos. We are adapting the ways we care for our trees to meet serious challenges to food production now, and for the future. Do you care about the future of food growing? Join us to support our work and take action with others on the ground.
Apple Trees for Sale
We have a selection of young apple trees for sale. Grafted by HOCO members, and chosen from our favourite varieties. We sell fruit trees to raise funds for the orchard, and to turn Bristol into an orchard city. More information here
Pruning Courses in the orchard
Does pruning fruit trees leave you stumped? Seasonal pruning courses at HOCO are brilliant for beginners and life-long learners. They include a one-to-one follow-up session working with your fruit trees. Previous participants praise this friendly and practical format. Booking information here.
New to fruit growing? Keen to learn more about pruning, lively soils, caring for trees in a climate crisis, and making the most of the harvest? HOCO hosts Orchard Learning courses and seasonalPruning workshops. Hands-on Dormant Season Pruning courses are offered in March. Growing Season Pruning courses are offered in August/September. Find out more: OrchardLearning
Read more about HOCO and the fruit we grow in the Orchard. See photographs of our beautiful orchard in the Gallery.
All are welcome to our community celebrations and public events. We Wassail in January, invite you to enjoy our Summer Orchard Open Day in June, and celebrate the harvest at Apple Day in October.
The orchard is cared for by Harvest-share members, who are active volunteers. Members look after the trees, site and structures. They also organise projects, seasonal celebrations and and do the admin that helps the group and the orchard to thrive.
Join as an active Member for hands-on learning about fruit growing, green exercise in a beautiful space, and a share of the delicious fruit.
Harvest-share ‘divi’ day – October 2019
Apple Day 2022 – cutting apples for juicing
Friends of HOCOMembers support the orchard with their membership subscriptions, donations, and help at events. HOCO Membership is open to individuals, households and organisations. Join us to support local, community food growing.
The orchard is home to The Apple Tree Lady. Get in touch with this home-grown fruit tree and orchard expert here to arrange a visit to your garden, allotment or community growing project.
