Parks and public greenery

Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord, Germany © LATZ+PARTNER

Parks and public green spaces primarily serve for the recreation of city residents. This function can combine well with the installation of living space for plants and animals. In view of biodiversity and in order to limit the need for pruning, it is important to preferably choose native species that match the local soil and ground water table. Fallen leaves can be left on the ground and old, dead trees can be left standing. The biodiversity is increased if native ferns, grass species and herbs are used for the flower borders. Neatly designed parks can also contain natural plantation.

Grasslands should be fertilised and mown as little as possible. Only the parts that are used as lawns for resting or playing should be mown regularly.

Parks produce wood waste and other green ‘waste’ almost on a permanent basis. This biomass does not need to be removed but in fact improves the quality of life in the ground and serves as a home for fauna.

Parks are very effective in reducing the air temperature of the city. The cooling effect can be proven even far away from the direct surroundings of the parks.