Hattersheim blooms: 76-year-old shows how community gardens grow!

Hattersheim blooms: 76-year-old shows how community gardens grow!

in Hattersheim, a district in the Main-Taunus district, has developed a fascinating initiative that enables residents to share their love of gardening. The "edible settlement", a community garden, started in 2013 as an intercultural and interdisciplinary project. It has developed into an integral part of the quarter in which the residents actively participate in the care of 26 beds on an area of around 500 square meters.

One of the most committed hobby gardeners is 76-year-old Elfriede Knieling. She has been there since the project was founded and spends many hours of morning pouring and maintaining her plants. In addition to a hydrangea, it raises various types of vegetables such as peppers and onions and says: "There are tomatoes every year".

community and exchange in the garden

Elfriede explains that she was particularly fascinated by the idea that people come together in the "edible settlement" and support each other. "It was something else," she says, telling her neighbors, with whom she regularly cares for her gardens and exchanges. At a recently organized garden ceremony, to which the Hawobau and the district office had invited, the users came together over coffee and cake to celebrate the end of the season.

The celebration was also used to label the beds and plant a common raised bed. The exchange of plants and ideas is a central part of the project. Hawobau employee Christine Pfaff has taken care of some tea plants and spices that are to be used by the residents, which further strengthens the community idea.

The district office, which is responsible for organizing the garden, has observed the demand for beds in recent years. Rabia Malik, an employee of the district office, reports that some areas are currently still available, since two users had to give up their beds for health reasons. Nevertheless, many complain about the rush for the gardens that can be used free of charge - a rare opportunity that allows people to devote themselves with minimal financial efforts.

Eberhard Roth, head of the district office, comments: "It only costs some effort and energy". The enthusiasm of the residents who take part in the garden qualification and share their harvest is gratifying. "We are concerned with communication," says Roth and emphasizes how important it is that the residents come into conversation with each other.

In a real community spirit not only grow plants, but also friendships. The "edible settlement" not only offers residents the opportunity to grow fresh food, but also the space to maintain social contacts and strengthen the cooperation. A concept that started in 2013 has turned into a popular and essential institution in the district that continues to bring the people in Hattersheim together.

Further information on this distinctive project can be found in a detailed report on www.fr.de .