The city of Ghent is taking innovative steps to enhance urban green spaces with a new plant experiment on the old Fluvius site at the Ham. This project, launched on 2025-05-16 15:10:00, involves collaboration between the city, Gents Milieufront, UGent, and vzw Viaverda to study how different plants grow in varied soil conditions.
- Nieuw park gepland op oude Fluviussite
- Samenwerking tussen stad Gent en organisaties
- Experiment met planten in diverse bodems
- 36 vakken van 4 m² uitgegraven
- Verschillende puinmengsels in bodem getest
- Onderzoekers bestuderen vegetatiegroei per bodemtype
Thirty-six test plots, each measuring four square meters, have been dug up and filled with soils mixed with different types of rubble. Various plants, such as clover, narrow plantain, thyme, and catnip, are planted in these plots to observe which vegetation thrives best depending on the soil composition and presence of foundations.
How will this experiment influence future urban parks in Belgium? And what can it teach US about sustainable city planning? The answers lie in the outcomes of this unique botanical trial.
This experiment raises important questions about urban ecology and sustainable landscaping in Belgian cities. By testing different soil and rubble mixtures, researchers aim to find vegetation that can withstand urban challenges and enrich biodiversity. Key points include:
- Understanding which plants best adapt to mixed rubble soils
- Assessing the impact of removing or retaining foundations on plant growth
- Informing future park development with data-driven planting strategies
- Promoting greener, more resilient urban environments in Belgium
As the project progresses, city planners and residents alike can look forward to greener, healthier parks that reflect Ghent’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. How might this model be replicated in other Belgian cities? Stay tuned for more updates on this promising experiment.
