This makes the perennial beds an important source of food for bees, bumblebees and other insects. In addition to this ecological aspect, the plants used also have a higher heat/drought tolerance and therefore have a positive effect on the microclimate in the city.
Grit provides optimal conditions as mineral mulch
The approximately five-centimetre-thick mineral mulch of chippings ensures optimum conditions. The stones, which look a little bleak at first, are covered by the perennials growing there after a short time, so there is no heating. The gravel perennial beds should therefore not be confused with "dead" gravel gardens, where a fleece is laid under the gravel to prevent plants from growing.
Ecological value and attractive design combined
Mixed perennial plantings combine a high ecological value with a visually appealing design. The Office for the Environment and Urban Greenery has already created such beds below the Beethovenhalle, at the Windeckbunker and at Bischofsplatz, for example. Further beds are planned in the city.
The creation of perennial beds is one of the lighthouse projects in the award process for the "Stadtgrün naturnah" label.
Easy and cost-effective maintenance
Compared to organic mulch, such as bark mulch, weeds grow significantly less well in mineral mulch made from chippings and are easier to remove. Water can also be better absorbed and stored in the soil. The perennial beds are therefore easier and cheaper to maintain. Once the planting is established, the spaces between the chippings fill up with dying plant material. This creates a nutrient-poor, well-draining top layer that resembles a stony site in nature.
Perennial bed at the Tannenbusch traffic circle
Dr. Markus Phlippen from Alfter presents a planted traffic circle in Tannenbusch that resembles a prairie garden on his YouTube channel Gardify. The video shows that perennials and grasses for dry, hot locations also offer many advantages in winter.
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