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Food Forest Podcast
as guest
Scotland's Guide to Sustainable Growth
Alan Carter
In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Alan Carter, a dedicated food forester from Aberdeen, Scotland, who has planted over a million trees. Together, they explore Scotland’s history of deforestation, the cultural and ecological complexities of reintroducing predators, and the untapped potential of agroforestry. Drawing on his book A Food Forest in Your Garden, Alan highlights the value of growing food in small spaces, the diversity of edible plants, and the practicalities of forest gardening in unpredictable climates. The conversation also emphasizes community engagement, creative cooking, and the philosophy of managing sustainable systems.
Key takeaways
- - Alan Carter has contributed to Scotland’s reforestation by planting over a million trees.
- Historically, Scotland was the most deforested country in Europe.
- Reintroducing predators like wolves poses both cultural and ecological challenges.
- Agroforestry offers opportunities to complement traditional sheep farming.
- Food forests can thrive even in small gardens and urban spaces.
- Aberdeen’s unpredictable climate shapes what can successfully be grown.
- Biodiversity is essential for a resilient and productive food forest.
- Cooking techniques can unlock unique flavors from forest garden produce.
- Community food-sharing initiatives ensure surplus harvests don’t go to waste.
- Building a food forest is a process of experimentation, patience, and continuous learning.
Useful links
- A Food Forest in your Garden Website: https://www.foodforest.garden/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/scottishforestgarden

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