The "Climate Active" initiative brings early-blooming flowers to public flowerbeds – an EU project promotes environmental engagement
The city is showing its most colorful side these weeks: Thanks to the initiative “Climate Active in Groß-Gerau”, a total of 12,500 flower bulbs were planted on public land in the autumn of 2024 – now they are unfolding their full splendor.
Fifty-six volunteers supported the project with several planting events at locations such as Albrecht-Dürer-Platz, Nauheimer Weg, Römerkreisel, in front of the fire station, the adult education center at Dornberg Castle , and in flowerbeds in the city center, for example on Mainzer Straße, Frankfurter Straße , and Schöneckenplatz. "The response was overwhelming. It was an encouraging experience to see how many people are actively committed to a vibrant cityscape," says Sabine Ziegler of Klimaaktiv.
Environmental education meets species conservation
The project is part of an EU-funded program implemented with the support of the German Adult Education Association and the Groß-Gerau District Adult Education Center . In addition to colorful crocuses , grape hyacinths (Muscari botryoides) were also planted – a native wildflower that is on the Red List and serves as a valuable food source, especially for bumblebees and wild bees
“Planting and caring for plants together not only creates beautiful places in the city, but also promotes biodiversity,” emphasizes Angelika Lange Etzel from Klimaaktiv. Early-blooming plants are a simple yet effective contribution that everyone can make in their own garden or on their balcony.
Next projects already planned
In late spring, another project will follow: Frankfurter Straße, near the historic town hall, will be planted with climate-adapted perennials . The project will be professionally supported by the city's green space maintenance team and the Hessian State Agricultural Agency (LLH) .
Mayor Jörg Rüddenklau also praised the project: "This commitment shows what practical environmental protection can look like locally. Together we are making Groß-Gerau not only more beautiful, but also more sustainable."
Further information about the initiative can be found on the website of the city of Groß-Gerau or via the Groß-Gerau district adult education center.
(GROSS-GERAU – RED/PSGG)
