Garden plots

One’s personal paradise

The press regularly reports of unafraid garden plot holders who fight tooth and nail for their gardens when the construction of habitations, of streets, or of trade areas is planned. On the other hand these access-forbidden garden plots represent unknown land for many inhabitants of Berlin. The district of Pankow hosts many of these colorful gardens.

To admit being a garden plot holder to urban citizens is like making a coming-out. The stereotype of the narrow-minded garden plot holders who hardly differ from their lawn gnomes still remains. But a revival of garden plots happens little by little. Young, urban families see in them a way for themselves and their children to experience nature and to find a counterbalance to their working life. Not only buy organic, but also grow fruits and vegetables oneself became a worthwhile endeavor.

The origin of garden plots were the needs of air, of light, and of nature which are still shared by the city slickers of today. The only difference is that these needs were due to hardship in the past. Working in the fresh air and in the daylight should minimise the bad consequences of a life in dark and cramped town houses and enable the workers to grow their own fruits and vegetables.

Garden plots do not only serve the garden plot holders good. They also improve the other citizens lives. In fact, the plants reduce the dust and cool the air. Despite all criticisms and concerns – garden plots are a sustainable component of a worth living city.

More information at the exhibition