Garden for Wildlife: Webinar on May 22 to Boost Species Protection in Germany
A webinar is scheduled for May 22, 2025, to educate interested parties about natural gardening, a practice that could significantly boost species protection in Germany. The gARTENreich project, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), is at the forefront of this initiative.
The project, involving scientists and practitioners from various organisations, has surveyed 2,000 garden owners. It found substantial potential for enhancing biodiversity in German gardens. Natural garden care involves using compost, organic fertilizers, and peat-free soil, while avoiding pesticides and early stem cutting.
To achieve high species diversity, gardens should offer a mix of habitats. These include hedges, dead wood, sunny and shady flower beds, and even a small pond. Native wild plants, like common mallow and angelica, benefit specific insects and birds, making them crucial for garden ecosystems. Cities like Gütersloh, Düren, and Bad Salzuflen are already informing citizens about natural gardening using gARTENreich materials.
The gARTENreich project offers tips, materials, webinars, and resources for both garden owners and municipalities. By creating diverse habitats, using native wild plants, and avoiding pesticides, private gardens in Germany could play a significant role in species protection.
