Raised beds and fruit trees for a better climate in Düsseldorf / News / Düsseldorf / report-d.de

Green oases with edible fruits and vegetables

The “Edible City” project is to be understood literally. It’s about planting fruit and vegetables in private and public areas. The aim is to create green oases in the city and to bring the topics of seasonal / regional nutrition and waste avoidance closer to the people of Düsseldorf. Last year, 40 organic raised beds with edible plants were set up in publicly accessible places in the city as part of the project.

“In order to achieve the ambitious goal of climate neutrality in 2035, we have to rethink the way we are used to,” explains Environment Department Head Helga Stulgies. “The Edible City project can make an important contribution to this and stimulate a discussion on the subject of nutrition and sustainability.” Environment Office Manager Thomas Loosen adds: “In addition, gardening together on site is a lot of fun, strengthens social cohesion and protects the environment in a variety of ways.”

Raised beds and fruit trees

The “Bio-Raised Bed Set” can be requested from the Environment Agency punctually at the beginning of the gardening season from Thursday (April 1st). The bio-certified set consists of a raised bed kit, soil, clay, fertilizer and seeds. It is financed upon request and delivered free of charge. Neighborhoods with at least three participants, associations, initiatives, churches, companies, schools and day-care centers can apply for a raised bed. A publicly accessible location is required. When the fruits are ripe, every neighbor should be allowed to harvest.

In addition to the raised beds, the planting of old fruit tree varieties is also encouraged to support the biodiversity in the city. The same applies here: the neighbors are allowed to harvest.

Düsseldorf schools and day-care centers can also receive funding for gardening tools, planters, soil, plants and much more as part of green environmental projects. Planting and sowing takes place on the school premises, for example in the school garden.

additional Information

Information on funding, the prerequisites for participation and how to apply is available at www.duesseldorf.de/essbare-stadt. This page also contains a wide range of practical tips for growing food in the garden, front yard, on the balcony and on the windowsill. It also provides information about allotment, rental and community gardens in Düsseldorf. The Environment Agency accepts applications for project participation, questions and suggestions by e-mail to [email protected]

–