Five gardens in the district received awards: blossoming in harmony with nature

Five gardens in the district received awards: blossoming in harmony with nature

October 28, 2025 was a very special day in Mengkofen: five natural gardens were ceremoniously awarded the coveted natural garden plaque. This award shows that the garden owners in the Dingolfing-Landau district are actively committed to preserving nature. In the town hall, district advisor Andreas Kinateder, Harry Detterbeck, deputy district chairman of the horticultural association, and Mayor Thomas Hieninger presented the plaques.

The Ministry of Agriculture launched the certification to take a stand against the increasing sealing of land and to increase awareness of gardening close to nature. This idea was very well received by those present, who have developed a good hand in designing their gardens. Kinateder explained that natural garden certification is not about giving free rein to the wild, but rather about conscious design in harmony with nature. This means, among other things, that no chemical pesticides are used and that the garden integrates elements such as small biotopes.

Natural gardens and their diversity

The award-winning gardens are particularly characterized by the use of fruit and vegetables as well as sustainable practices such as composting and rainwater harvesting. These gardens not only represent an example of beautiful gardening, but they also actively contribute to promoting biodiversity. An idea that the Bavarian Garden Academy supports by showing the advantages of naturally managed gardens. Such gardens not only attract bees and other insects, but also provide a variety of habitats for animals and plants.

The award-winning gardens belong to the families:

• Elisabeth und Niko Klades-Psarras
• Ulrike und Franz Wimmer (Frontenhausen)
• Helga und Werner Müller (Hüttenkofen)
• Elisabeth Vögl (Murrenkreuth, Gemeinde Mengkofen)
• Renate und Josef Hofmeister (Landau)

A total of almost 60 natural gardens in the district were recognized, which shows that interest in sustainable gardening is very popular in the region. The guests took the opportunity to exchange ideas and share experiences after a vivid picture presentation by Kinateder. An initiative that encourages many people to design their gardens in a natural way and thus make their contribution to the environment.

The importance of natural gardens

The criteria for certification are clearly defined. Garden owners can, for example, distinguish themselves through special plantings such as insect-friendly flowers and hedges typical of the area. Mixed crops, crop rotation and the use of rainwater are also important aspects when designing a natural garden. This involves the abandonment of chemical-synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, a step towards promoting terrestrial diversity.

A natural garden is not only a beautiful sight, but also a lively place that actively combats the extinction of insects and plants. It becomes clear that every garden owner has some responsibility to protect this valuable habitat. The information about the natural garden badge can be found on the website of the horticultural associations and the Bavarian Garden Academy, where registration for the certification is also possible. If you want to do a good deal, you can register as a member of a fruit and garden club to benefit from reduced fees.

A beautiful garden is not only a personal retreat, but also an important contribution to nature conservation. For anyone who wants to learn more, there are plenty of resources and support to help you get started on this path.

For more information about natural garden certification you can visit the website Dingolfing Landau, Bavarian Garden Academy and also about AOL Mail visit.