In a bustling metropolis like Berlin, every square meter of green space is valuable. A natural garden is more than just a collection of plants; it's a living ecosystem that provides a vital habitat for bees, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. By making a few conscious choices, you can transform your garden or balcony into a thriving oasis that promotes biodiversity and brings nature back into the city.
Urban environments are often "green deserts" for wildlife, dominated by sterile lawns and exotic plants that offer little food for local insects. A garden rich in biodiversity helps to:
This is the most important principle. Native plants have co-evolved with local insects and animals for thousands of years. They provide the right kind of nectar, pollen, and leaves that our native wildlife needs to survive. Many exotic ornamental plants are useless to them.
Ensure that there are flowers blooming from early spring to late autumn to provide a continuous food source for pollinators.
A natural garden is a bit "messier" than a perfectly manicured lawn, and that's a good thing! Different structures provide shelter and nesting places.
Pesticides and herbicides kill indiscriminately, harming beneficial insects along with pests. A natural garden relies on balance. A few aphids on your roses are not a catastrophe; they are food for ladybugs. Embrace a more relaxed approach and let nature regulate itself.
A diverse garden has multiple layers, just like a natural forest: groundcovers, perennials, shrubs, and small trees. This provides a variety of niches for different species to live and forage.
Creating a natural garden in Berlin is a rewarding journey. You will not only be rewarded with a beautiful, low-maintenance garden but also with the daily joy of watching it come alive with the buzz of bees, the flutter of butterflies, and the song of birds. It's your personal contribution to a greener, more vibrant city.