Planting orchards for schoolchildren worldwide

Dear friends,

We’re excited to share an update from our Fruit Tree 101 program, where our most recent schoolyard orchards were planted this summer across California. These orchards are more than trees — they are living classrooms, green spaces, and sources of nutritious food for students, families, and their communities.

At Twin Oaks Elementary in San Marcos, 32 fruit trees were planted, including avocados, apples, plums, peaches, pomegranates, oranges, mandarins, and lemons. An additional 100 trees were sent home with local families, extending the orchard’s impact.

In Anaheim, Magnolia High School’s orchard provides students with hands-on experience growing, harvesting, and using fresh foods from their campus.

La Jolla Elementary received 26 new trees on campus and 40 more for households, creating shade, nutritious food, and vibrant learning spaces.

Pacific Beach Elementary in San Diego also transformed its school garden into a thriving orchard of plum, peach, blood orange, apricot, and apple trees.

During summer, when students may not be on campus regularly, these plantings give them a chance to reconnect to the campus, collaborate with peers, and engage in productive, educational, and community-focused activities. 

We are deeply grateful to all the students, families, educators, volunteers, and partners who made these orchards possible. Each tree planted nurtures a healthier, more resilient future for people and planet alike.

With gratitude,

The FTPF Team