Start Your Orchard: TUICU’s Green Initiative for Schools

Bring nature to your school with TUICU’s Green Initiative! We’re offering the first 50 schools in Ireland a chance to cultivate learning and environmental stewardship by starting their orchard. 

Successful applicants will receive three native Irish apple trees, completely free, to enhance biodiversity and provide hands-on educational experiences for students.

Planting an orchard at school offers numerous benefits. It provides students with hands on learning opportunities, teaching them about biology, ecology, and sustainability in a real-world setting

This initiative not only supports ecological education but also promotes healthy eating and community involvement. Apply now and help us plant the seeds for a greener tomorrow!

Why Old Irish Type Apple Trees?

Old Irish type apple trees are not just ordinary trees; they are a living piece of Ireland's rich agricultural heritage. Here are some of the benefits of these unique apple trees:

• Historical Significance: These trees are a part of Ireland's cultural legacy, with some varieties dating back hundreds of years
• Adaptability: They are well-suited to Ireland's temperate climate, making them resilient and easier to grow
• Diverse Flavours: Each variety offers a unique taste, from sweet and juicy to tart and crisp, perfect for eating fresh or using in recipes
• Disease Resistance: Many old Irish apple varieties have natural resistance to common diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments
• Biodiversity: Planting these trees helps preserve genetic diversity, which is crucial for the resilience of our food systems

Sustainability Advantages

Growing an orchard in your school brings numerous sustainability benefits:

• Educational Value: Orchards serve as living classrooms where students can learn about plant biology, ecology, and sustainable farming practices
• Environmental Stewardship: By planting trees, students contribute to carbon sequestration, helping to combat climate change
• Biodiversity: Orchards support a variety of wildlife, including pollinators like bees, which are essential for a healthy ecosystem
• Local Food Production: Growing your own apples reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food and encourages local food consumption
• Community Engagement: Orchards can become a focal point for community activities, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the environment

How to enter

To participate, simply fill out the entry form on our website. Remember, the first 50 schools to enter will receive three old Irish type apple trees to get started. Don't miss this chance to make a lasting impact on your school and community!

Let's grow together and make a greener, more sustainable future!