What do we do?

Autumn is the perfect time to plant trees, flower bulbs, and perennials. By planting in the fall, the roots can establish themselves well, allowing you to enjoy a green and blooming garden as early as spring.

Together with our partner, Stichting Steenbreek, we will plant organic flower bulbs in the Vondelpark on October 4th during the National Flower Bulb Weekend. We are doing this to help combat the decline of insects such as bees and bumblebees. Insect populations have decreased by 75%, which is a serious problem. Bees and bumblebees wake up in early spring when the weather gets warmer, but often there isn't enough food for them yet. As a result, they become exhausted and may die. These insects are crucial to the ecosystem, as they play a vital role in pollinating flowers and food crops.

In addition to the flower bulb initiative, we are also carrying out various other greening projects. Wherever possible, we replace unnecessary paving in private and public spaces with a diverse range of greenery. We do this with the help of residents and businesses because together, we can achieve more. Examples of these projects include creating demonstration gardens, building insect hotels, establishing facade gardens, and greening entire streets in collaboration with local communities.

The great thing about these projects is that everyone can get involved! The flower bulb initiative is a perfect example of this. Planting bulbs is easy and accessible and can be done in many places—whether in your own garden, on your balcony, in the street, or even around tree bases and public green spaces.

Thanks to your purchase, you directly contribute to these local greening projects. With your help, we invest in purchasing flower bulbs and trees. Together, we are making the environment greener, healthier, and better for both people and nature!

Why is this important?

Biodiversity is essential for nature to function properly. The diversity of animals, plants, micro-organisms, and ecosystems forms the foundation for all life on Earth. Unfortunately, scientific studies show that many species—both plants and animals—are becoming extinct. Various species of bees, which are responsible for pollinating a large portion of all plants and flowers, are also severely threatened.

By replacing paved surfaces in gardens and public spaces with a variety of plants, we help create habitats for mammals, butterflies, (wild) bees, and other insects. These areas provide them not only with shelter but also with sufficient food. This, in turn, has a positive effect on bird species and bats, which also depend on healthy biodiversity.

With this project, we contribute to the restoration of that biodiversity, allowing nature to remain better balanced and to continue fulfilling its important role.

Impact

On October 4th, we will be planting 10,000 organic flower bulbs in the Vondelpark (300m²). These will be planted in the area of the Koeienweide.

How do we work?

The "Join the Planting" campaign starts in October and runs through November. During this period, we focus on two key initiatives: planting organic flower bulbs and raising awareness about the importance of trees in the garden.

Trees provide many benefits for your garden. They offer shade and cooling, improve air quality, reduce pressure on the drainage system during heavy rainfall, provide privacy, and increase the value of your home. Some trees also produce food, such as fruit, seeds, or nuts, which are beneficial to both people and animals. Birds use trees and shrubs as safe places to build nests or find shelter. Moreover, people tend to feel mentally and physically healthier when surrounded by nature.

In short, trees contribute to a more beautiful and healthier living environment. Alongside raising awareness, we are also organizing tree-planting events in collaboration with Meer Bomen Nu. Together, we are working towards a greener and healthier world!

More information about the project

About the partner

Stichting Steenbreek, founded in 2015, focuses on raising awareness about the importance of greenery in our living environment. They also take concrete action to "de-pave" and green gardens and streets, both in public and private spaces across the Netherlands. Their goal is to halt the increasing urbanization of our environment and to sustainably enhance it with more green spaces.

Stichting Steenbreek’s mission goes beyond just adding more greenery. They focus on four key themes: biodiversity, climate adaptation, social cohesion, and health. These themes play a vital role in creating a healthy and sustainable living environment. Through their work, the foundation contributes to a greener and more livable Netherlands.

For more information, visit their website: steenbreek.nl.

Will you join the planting?