Bavaria is blooming: natural gardens as oases for biodiversity and relaxation!

Bavaria is blooming: natural gardens as oases for biodiversity and relaxation!

The trend towards natural gardens is constantly increasing in Germany. A natural garden is more than just a beautiful place to relax; it is a living space in which people and nature coexist harmoniously. According to the municipality of Hahnbach, a natural garden offers relaxation, deceleration and a learning space for children and adults. However, maintaining these gardens requires conscious design in harmony with nature in order to promote a vibrant diversity of habitats. The “Bavaria is blooming – natural garden” initiative, launched by the Bavarian State Association for Horticulture and Land Conservation. V., has set itself the goal of certifying these gardens and thereby contributing to biodiversity.

The diverse habitats, such as flower meadows, ponds and cottage gardens, are not only beautiful to look at, they also create an ecological balance. Biological diversity is further promoted through targeted care practices such as composting, promotion of beneficial organisms, mixed culture, crop rotation and rainwater use. Gardens that meet the certification criteria receive an official plaque that signals their membership in the natural garden community. Information about certification can be found on the website gartenbauvereine.org.

Certification and participation

Participation in this certification is possible for both members and non-members of fruit and horticultural associations. Members can register directly with the Bavarian State Association, whereby registrations are forwarded to the respective district associations. After successful certification, a free certificate and plaque will be issued. Non-members have to pay a nominal fee of 80 euros.

The Bavarian Garden Academy plays a central role when it comes to quality and certification criteria. Professionally qualified people such as district consultants or district chairmen are responsible for the actual certification of the gardens. Garden owners have the opportunity to register their gardens and thus actively contribute to promoting biodiversity.

Biodiversity in focus

The need for such an initiative is illustrated by the current situation in Germany. According to a study presented by National Geographic, 26% of plants and 36% of animals in Germany are at risk. Over 70% of natural habitats are considered threatened. A research project called gARTENreich examines the impact on private gardens and attempts to collect quantitative data on biodiversity. Experts warn of a loss of garden diversity due to soil sealing and non-native plants.

The project promotes natural garden design through workshops and surveys and also aims to create guidelines for hobby gardeners and municipalities. Gardeners are encouraged to use native wild plants, set up nesting aids and create ponds to increase biodiversity in their gardens. Initiatives like that of “Bavaria Blooms – Nature Garden” show how each individual can contribute to preserving and promoting biodiversity.