The ecological potential of these landscaped green oases need not be at odds with the decorative and representational purposes that these areas primarily fulfill. When selecting plants, attention should be paid to diversity and species that are close to nature and not overbred. Herbaceous perennial plantings can be found in flower beds in front of some university buildings (Barkhausen Building, Recknagel Building, Fritz Förster Building). In historic gardens, such as that of the Hülsse Courtyard with its study beds, the focus is on historic preservation. A special feature on campus is the garden of the student environmental initiative (tuuwi), which encourages students to try things out, exchange ideas and get involved with gardening themselves. 

Street tree beds, such as those found by the Biology Building or along the Georg-Schumann-Straße, provide small flowering oases of high ecological value. Planter boxes are ideal for adding greenery to paved areas on campus, as they also act as stepping stone biotopes for insects.

© U. Seiler, TUD

Herbaceous perennial flower beds

Herbaceous perennials are plants that sprout new shoots in spring. Dead plant parts, e.g. hollow stems, are used by insects for overwintering and should therefore only be removed in spring. Planting species that flower in spring, summer and fall provides a food supply for many insect species when the flowers are unfilled. The seeds are a welcome bird food.

© N. Rüsing, TUD

Street tree beds

Planting tree beds is a small but effective way to increase biodiversity. One example is Georg-Schumann-Straße on campus. The trees also benefit from the improved soil conditions and greater water supply. Undemanding perennials, spring bloomers, flowers and herbs are all well suited to these areas, and the result is small, flowering oases of high ecological value.

© U. Seiler, TUD

Flower beds at the Biology Building

Urban areas need to be cleared of pavement and redesigned if they are to adapt to climate change. At the same time, this improves the area as a whole. Even very small design adjustments, such as around the new seating area at the Biology Building, can provide some greenery and serve as stepping stones for animal species.

© M. Kretzschmar, TUD

Planter boxes on campus footpaths

Planters are used as a decorative feature and as a boundary along some of the pathways on the campus. When selecting plants, focus is often placed on cost and visuals. Insect-friendly perennials and small shrubs are well suited for permanent planting. However, plantings that are renewed several times a year add variety.

© R. Forke, TUD

Hülsse Garden

With its study beds, the Hülsse Garden is an important testimony to 1950s/60s garden culture and a unique meeting place for students and teaching staff. The study beds are maintained by the members of the Junior Professorship in Planting Design of the Institute of Landscape Architecture. Planting follows the current teaching content. The garden invites everyone to enjoy the outdoors.

© Crispin-Iven Mokry

Garden of the student environmental initiative – tuuwi

The tuuwi garden is open to the public and is a place to try things out, relax and learn. It is part of student environmental education. Shrubs, perennials, herbs and woody plants grow here. Vegetables are grown in the raised beds. The meadow is only partially mown. In September 2021, 38 plant species were identified here, and the garden is home to a wide variety of species.