Cologne-Kalk: Gardener receives 500 euros for decades of gardening commitment!

Cologne-Kalk: Gardener receives 500 euros for decades of gardening commitment!

Gardens are not only green oases, but also places full of stories and life. One such example can be found in the Kalk district of Cologne, where Sevket Erciyes has been tending the garden on Falckensteinstrasse since 1985. The passionate gardener and tenant of Vonovia has dedicated himself to designing a remarkable garden that includes, among other things, olive, peach, apple, fig and cherry trees. Various herbs, flowers and useful plants have also found their place here. What is particularly noteworthy is that some fruit trees are over 30 years old and now play a valuable role in the biological diversity of the district.

To honor his many years of work, Vonovia presented Sevket Erciyes with a rental credit of 500 euros. Alexander Schiersch, manager of Vonovia, not only praises the green initiative, but also highlights Erciyes' contribution to a livable living environment. “Your commitment creates a sustainable space for all residents,” says Schiersch. This example shows how important individual commitment to the community and the environment is.

The importance of biodiversity

In the context of climate change and biodiversity-related change, initiatives like Erciyes's are particularly relevant. Gardens and urban green spaces make a significant contribution to a species-rich environment. Projects like that Botanical Advisory Center Berlin, which has been based at the Berlin Botanical Garden since 2025, supports citizens and districts on questions about biodiversity. Here, interested parties can find out how they can select suitable plants for their gardens and implement site-appropriate urban greening.

The advice center promotes the use of regional seeds and native plants and offers free services to raise awareness of natural greenery. This initiative is part of a larger commitment to respond to the challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change. The aim of the advice center is to impart knowledge and promote the networking of expertise in urban society.

A call to action

In times when the preservation of natural biodiversity is becoming increasingly important, committed gardeners like Sevket Erciyes are role models. They show how great initiatives can emerge from small beginnings. Its green space is not only a place of refuge for the neighbors, but also a symbol of the valuable contribution that each individual can make.

It's time to take action yourself and develop a good knack for your own green design. Anyone interested in this has the opportunity to find support at the advice center in Berlin and learn how to create species-rich and sustainable gardens. Exchanging knowledge and ideas is the key to shaping a better future together.