Budapest’s newest orchard ready to welcome visitors

In a celebration of urban greenery, Budapest welcomes a flourishing addition to its landscape. The opening of the capital’s second orchard not only enriches the city’s biodiversity but also invites residents to connect with nature in the heart of Kubala László Park.

Growing green spaces

In a recent announcement on Facebook, Főkert shared the completion of Budapest’s second orchard in Kubala László Park, located in the XIII. district. This exciting green initiative follows the successful establishment of the city’s first orchard in Pünkösdfürdő Park in Óbuda last spring. The new orchard boasts a variety of fruit trees, including apple, cherry, walnut, apricot and plum, as stated in a Telex article.

Orchard variety and sustainability

The orchard in Kubala László Park showcases a selection of trees, with an array of 24 varieties, including pears, plums, sour cherries, different types of apples, medlar, cherries, almonds and quince. What sets these trees apart is their resilience, being native and resistant varieties that require minimal intervention. They are not sprayed but are carefully pruned each spring. The orchard’s ecosystem thrives with the strategic planting of currant bushes and a sprinkling of seed mix. Beyond the fruit-bearing aspect, the orchard contributes to the local biodiversity, attracting insects and birds to the area.

Addressing social needs through orchard planting

András Zakar, the director general of the horticultural division of Budapest Public Utilities, highlighted a not-so-secret purpose behind the orchard. With rising inflation and economic challenges faced by some families in the area, the orchard provides a solution. There are signs urging responsible picking. However, the organisers trust the community to ensure the orchard remains a shared resource.