
Wooden whisky barrels are ready to roll out, the Council has replanted local planters, and more than 30 volunteers have met to help make Corstorphine brighter, greener and more welcoming.
Corstorphine in Bloom is now moving from idea to action.
We are bringing together local residents, businesses, parks, community groups and the City of Edinburgh Council to improve the places we all use every day โ streets, shopping areas, parks, paths and public spaces.
Progress so far (19 June 26)
3
planters replanted
15
whiskey barrels obtained
8+
locations to be planted in June
56+
businesses interested
147+
volunteers and supporters
14+
community organisations involved
You do not need to be a gardener. You do not need to join a committee. You do not need to make a big commitment..
What Has Happened So Far
Corstorphine in Bloom is already making visible progress with fantatsic support from the council, community and businesses.
30 volunteers have met
We have now met with around 30 local volunteers who want to help in practical, simple and enjoyable ways.
3 planters have been replanted by the Council
The Council has already replanted three local planters, giving us a strong start and showing what can be achieved when the community and Council work together.
15 wooden whisky barrels are ready to roll out
New whisky barrel planters will soon start appearing in key locations around Corstorphine, including parks, libraries and other areas.
Businesses are stepping up
Local businesses are offering to host, sponsor and support planters, helping to brighten the areas where people shop, walk and meet.
Some Planting Pictures







Can You Help Near Where You Live?
We are looking for small teams of local people to help look after planters near their homes, shops, schools, parks or regular walking routes.
The idea is simple: each planter should have several people linked to it, so no one person is left carrying the responsibility.
You might be able to help by:
- watering a planter
- weeding or tidying
- checking that a planter is looking healthy
- reporting any problems
- helping with seasonal replanting
- joining a small local team
- encouraging neighbours or businesses to get involved
Even a few minutes can make a difference.
A planter that is watered, weeded and cared for becomes a small sign that people care about where they live.
How Corstorphine in Bloom Works
Corstorphine in Bloom is based on small, practical actions.
We want volunteering to be enjoyable, flexible and useful. It should not feel like a burden or another demand on peopleโs time.
1. You choose your area
Tell us where you live, shop, walk or visit regularly. We will try to match you with a planter nearby.
2. You join a small team
Each planter should have several volunteers linked to it. That means tasks can be shared and no one person is left responsible for everything.
3. You do simple tasks
Most tasks are small: watering, weeding, tidying, checking and occasional seasonal planting.
4. We keep in touch
You can choose how you would like to hear from us โ email, WhatsApp, private Facebook group or online forum.
5. We work with partners
The Council, local businesses, park groups and community organisations all have a part to play. Corstorphine in Bloom helps connect people, places and practical support.
Parks, Streets and Shopping Areas
Corstorphine in Bloom is not just about individual planters. It is about improving the feel of the whole area.
We want to help create a trail of brighter, greener places across Corstorphine, linking parks, streets, shops and community spaces.
This includes:
- park planters
- shopping street planters
- business planters
- community planting
- floral gateways
- small improvements to tired spaces
- links between parks and local centres
- clean streets
Over time, we want Corstorphine to feel more cared for, more colourful and more welcoming.


Corstorphine in Bloom has been building steadily over recent months, with support from local people, discussions with partners, and ongoing work with the Council.
Coming Next
There is a lot to look forward to.
Over the next few weeks and months, we hope to see:
- more whisky barrel planters placed around Corstorphine
- more volunteers matched with local planter teams
- more businesses hosting and supporting planters
- more park locations added
- seasonal replanting and maintenance
- further discussions with the Council about floral gateways and streetscape improvements
- work continuing on a possible Corstorphine animal information trail with the zoo
Some of these plans are already moving. Others are still being developed with partners. We will keep residents, volunteers and businesses updated as things progress.
Thank You
Corstorphine in Bloom is only possible because people are willing to help.
Thank you to:
- the volunteers who have already come forward
- the Council teams supporting planter improvements – they have worked really hard
- local businesses offering space, sponsorship and practical help
- Friends groups and park volunteers
- community organisations helping spread the word
- residents who are encouraging neighbours to get involved
Every offer of help matters.
A watered planter, a weeded corner, a barrel outside a shop, a neighbour checking on flowers during a walk โ these small actions add up.
Get Involved
Can you help with a planter near you?
Please tell us:
- where you would like to volunteer
- what kind of help you can offer
- whether you prefer email, WhatsApp, Facebook or the online forum
- whether you would be happy to be part of a small local team
You do not need to do everything.
You just need to do something.


A Green Safari Trail Through Corstorphine
Corstorphine in Bloom is also exploring a wider nature theme linked to native plants and animals.
We are also exploring the use of QR codes linking people to interpretation about native species and conservation projects. This could help create a local trail that is attractive to residents, families, schools and visitors.
Talks are ongoing with the council and zoo.
Our Vision
Weโre here to make our neighbourhood feel healthier, greener and friendlier โ at a pace that suits you.
- Connecting five parks and eleven shopping areas
- Encouraging walking and everyday contact with nature
- Supporting biodiversity as part of Edinburghโs Nature Network
- Helping neighbours share pride in our community
Help Corstorphine Bloom
Small actions, shared locally, make a big difference.
