Patenschaften für Baumscheiben

Those in Berlin without a garden who still want to garden can find an opportunity right on their doorstep: the tree pit. Berliners in districts like Mitte, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, or Treptow-Köpenick are transforming the small strips of earth around street trees into blooming miniature gardens - making a tangible contribution to more greenery in the neighborhood.

Planting a Tree Pit: How Urban Gardening Works in the Smallest Spaces

More and more people are using the public spaces around street trees to create blooming mini-paradises. The principle behind it is remarkably simple: planting a tree pit is an easy method to help trees withstand daily environmental influences – and with thoughtful planting, it effectively contributes to increasing biodiversity in the city. The roots of the plants loosen the soil, allow more oxygen and water to penetrate, protect against erosion, and reduce evaporation. Furthermore, a well-maintained and planted tree pit is less likely to be used as a storage area, dog toilet, or rubbish bin, and it delights passers-by.

Site-appropriate species are particularly suitable as planting ideas: Suitable for underplanting are columbine, comfrey, yellow archangel, lady’s mantle, periwinkle, lily of the valley, cranesbill, violet, sweet woodruff, and all spring flowers. Always leave the trunk area clear: A minimum distance of 30 cm between the trunk and the planting is necessary to avoid damaging the tree roots.

Tree Pit Sponsorships: How to Get Started in Berlin

Anyone wishing to take on a sponsorship for tree pits in Berlin should first inquire with the responsible district office. Simply starting without inquiry is usually not a good idea, as there are regulations for planting in public spaces that can vary from district to district – so it is essential to contact the responsible parks department before the first shovel stroke. In the Mitte district, for example, no permit is required for planting a tree pit – just a green thumb, prudence, and commitment. In Treptow-Köpenick, the sponsorship is generally free of charge.

Engagement is noticeably growing: The number of voluntary tree pit sponsorships has significantly increased in recent years – in some districts, over 100 sponsors are now actively involved in the care and sustainable design of tree pits and public spaces. New projects are also continuously emerging in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf: Following a public campaign in 2024, more and more planted tree beds have been added, and in 2025, small Benjes hedges will also be tested there for demarcation. So, anyone who wants to garden in the city will find a growing community in Berlin that shows: especially in Berlin, such areas demonstrate how easily biodiversity and neighborhood can be connected.