Greenery on the rise: over 500 new flowers, perennials and shrubs on campus

Among the newly planted species on the University of Graz campus, the common lungwort is currently in bloom. Photo: University of Graz/Pichler

Bright blooms and fresh greenery make our hearts beat faster in spring. But it is not just us humans who delight in this colourful growth. For many animals, this splendour provides, above all, food and habitat. There has recently been an increase in this on the University of Graz campus. More than 500 native flowers, perennials and shrubs have been planted on strips of fallow land around Universitätsplatz 2.

Jonathan Wilfling, technical director of the University of Graz Botanical Garden, has selected barberry, lily of the valley, honeysuckle and around 20 other plants native to Europe to enhance the floral display at Universitätsplatz 2. A composition comprising a total of over 500 plants. Their primary aim is to increase the food supply for pollinating insects. This is becoming increasingly scarce in many places due to urban development and intensive agriculture.

Every bit of space counts. Those in charge at the University of Graz are well aware of this. In 2023, the University developed a biodiversity strategy with the expertise of researchers from the Department of Biology and the Ökoteam Graz to increase the diversity of flora and fauna on campus. In the same year, the first flower strip was planted on the north lawn at Universitätsplatz. Information about the project and all measures to promote biodiversity can be found on the website biodiversitaet.uni-graz.at.

©University of Graz / Pichler

Everyone starts small. For now, we can only imagine the future splendour of the blossoms. Photo: University of Graz/Pichler

©University of Graz / Pichler

Every square metre counts. The University of Graz is investing in the future, even on a small scale. Photo: University of Graz/Pichler

Gudrun Pichler

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