Tree Officer Programme
In March 2021, the City of Luxembourg launched the "Tree Officer Programme", which was a resounding success. The Tree Officer Programme was set up to encourage people to help look after a tree bed in the street in front of their home. It is aimed especially at people who do not have their own garden or balcony, but also at anyone who wishes to use a tree bed in front of their home as an extension of their own garden.
Aside from the social aspect – the tree beds are often a conversation starter between gardeners and passersby – the environmental aspect is a key component of the project: with participants' floral decorations, streets look greener and more welcoming, the city's neighbourhoods are rejuvenated, quality of life improves, and biodiversity is allowed to flourish.
Choosing a tree bed
If you want to take part in the project and adopt a tree bed, contact the City of Luxembourg's <em>Service Parcs</em> (Parks Department) (parcs@vdl.lu) and tell us which street you live on and which tree you would like to adopt. An employee from the <em>Service Parcs</em> will then meet with you to help locate the tree bed that is most suitable. Note: Some tree beds are not suitable for gardening.
What plants can I grow?
After consulting with the <em>Service Parcs</em>, and depending on where the tree bed is located, gardeners can grow different types of plants, including summer flowers, bulbs, flower seeds and grass. To help gardeners choose, the <em>Service Parcs</em> has drawn up a list itemising all the types of flowers than can be planted in tree beds, along with their most suitable locations.
When the tree bed is assigned, the <em>Service Parcs</em> will share with gardeners a few dos and don'ts to bear in mind when planting. For example, for beds with young trees, flowers should be planted around the edges of the tree, instead of directly under it, and potting soil should not cover the base of the trunk.
The <em>Service Parcs</em> is always available to advise gardeners on how to make up their flowerbeds. However, it is up to gardeners to purchase all plants and materials, and to look after the space.
