Thank you for your interest in making Corstorphine a greener, more vibrant place to live and work. Below are answers to the most common questions for our volunteers.

1. General Questions

What is the goal of Corstorphine in Bloom? We want to improve our local environment through planting, weeding, and community action. By enhancing our streets and parks, we aim to increase local pride, support biodiversity, and boost footfall for our local businesses.

How much time do I need to commit? As much or as little as you like! Our “devolved” model is designed to be flexible.

• General volunteering: Can be as simple as “watering as you pass by.”
• Liaison Leads: Might spend 1 hour a week checking in with local businesses
• Park Days: Usually scheduled as 1 hour sessions on weekends or evenings.

Do I need to be an expert gardener? Not at all. We need people who can water, weed, and chat with neighbors just as much as we need “green fingers.” For those who want guidance, our Planting Advice Helpers are here to help.

2. Roles & Responsibilities

What exactly does a “Liaison Lead” do? A Liaison Lead is the friendly local contact for a specific area (like a block of shops or a school). You aren’t responsible for doing all the work; your role is to build a relationship with the business or school, see what they need, and coordinate help if they require a hand with their planters.

What is a “Planting Advice Helper”? These are volunteers with gardening knowledge who help us choose the right plants for the right places. They ensure we use pollinator-friendly, affordable, and hardy plants that can withstand the specific conditions (wind, shade, etc.) of our streets and parks.

3. Logistics & Practicalities

Who provides the tools, soil, and water? * Tools: For group sessions (Park Days), we try to provide tools, though bringing your own gloves is always helpful.

• Soil: We are working with the Council and local parks to secure soil deliveries for major planters.
• Water: Several local businesses have already agreed to provide access to water. If you are looking after a specific planter, we will help you identify the nearest water source.

Are volunteers insured? Yes. We are registering as an informal group with the City of Edinburgh Council and joining the Friends of Edinburgh Greenspaces. This provides insurance coverage for our volunteers while carrying out basic gardening and maintenance tasks.

4. Special Projects

What is the “Corstorphine Safari”? This is a collaboration with Edinburgh Zoo. We are creating a nature trail across the area featuring animal-themed branding. It’s designed to be educational for families and to encourage visitors to walk the full length of our high street.

How do the “St John’s Road” planters work? The stone planters on the main road are a high priority. Because they are on a busy street, we coordinate “squads” to ensure they are regularly maintained without it becoming a burden on any single person.

5. Getting Involved

How do I communicate with other volunteers? We use a dedicated community forum: https://corstorphineinbloom.freeforums.net/. It’s a great place to see what’s happening on your street and share tips.

What if I have a skill that isn’t gardening? We need you! Whether you are good at photography, social media, organising events, or just handy with a screwdriver (for building planters at nurseries), please let us know.

How do I sign up? Simply contact us via this website