A COMMUNITY GROUP in Dublin 12 is set to mark a major milestone this weekend with its largest ever tree giveaway, aimed at boosting biodiversity in the area.

Bloomin’ Crumlin will host its annual Orchard Project tomorrow, celebrating six years of distributing free plants to local residents.

The volunteer-led initiative will see fruit trees, native trees, shrubs and herbs given away at Pearse College of Further Education, with organisers expecting a strong turnout.

Around 750 trees are among the plants being handed out to locals tomorrow.

Since launching, the project has provided more than 7,000 trees and plants across Crumlin and Kimmage, transforming gardens and green spaces throughout the area.

Volunteer Laura Casanellas said the impact is already visible.

“We can physically see the trees from previous years now around the area,” Casanellas said, “and we see the community expecting the project every year.”

She said the initiative was partly driven by a lack of tree cover in parts of the area, but also by a broader aim to encourage people to engage with nature and food growing.

A number of the trees which will be on offer tomorrow. Bloomin' Crumlin Bloomin' Crumlin

“We want to promote the idea of cultivating your own food, even for younger generations, to see something grow and be able to use it,” she explained.

Organisers said the event has become a key moment for the community, with hundreds of applications for this year’s giveaway and strong interest from local residents.

Alongside the plant distribution, Saturday’s event will include planting advice, a free bike clinic, live music and refreshments.

Casanellas said the project is also about building connections locally.

“It’s not just about trees, it’s about people feeling proud of where they live and getting involved,” Casanellas said.

The initiative is supported by organisations including Dublin City Council, as part of wider efforts to promote climate action and community-led sustainability.

More information on the event can be found here.