From early childhood I enjoyed spending time in nature and experienced gardening at home, but especially with my grandparents. So gardening came as something natural – however: the first years were characterized by many failures.
In 2017 I met the founder of the Open Garden Scheme “Gärten an der Ruhr”- Ingrid Adelt. I took part in several of her courses on planning borders with perennials At the same time, I also became a member of the GdS (Gesellschaft der Staudenfreunde e.V.), which is committed to teaching about and growing perennials.
I also visited many other gardens in our region and abroad for inspiration. In the years that followed, I tried to put into practice what I had learnt about the different environments for perennials. In 2024 I continued my education in a one week symposium at Great Dixter with Fergus Garrett and also passed the RHS Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth and Development.
Spending time in the garden and designing with perennials is a form of relaxation for me. When visitors come to the garden, they will sooner or later comment on how much work this garden must be. I can only disagree with that! Because by providing the perennials with the conditions they need and by choosing robust species or varieties, I minimize the amount of care required (e.g. watering) and the perennials mostly thrive by themselves.
Since 2023 we have been taking part in the Open Garden Scheme “Offene Gaerten an der Ruhr” opening the garden for guests on a couple of weekends every year.
