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The rise of the home garden in Switzerland: Cultivating a greener future
In recent years, an inspiring trend has emerged in Switzerland, where many families and individuals have adopted the practice of growing their own organic vegetable gardens as home gardens. This movement is becoming increasingly common across the country, especially in specific regions that we will explore below. This growing trend not only offers several benefits, but also promotes a healthier lifestyle through better nutrition and a deeper connection with nature.
Swiss citizens have long recognised the benefits of home gardens, and some regions stand out as pioneers in this practice. In particular, areas such as the cantons of Vaud, Zurich and Bern witness a tradition of home gardens that goes back several generations. These regions have promoted a culture of self-sufficiency and a deep respect for the environment, which has contributed to the popularity of the home garden over the years.
The advantages of the home garden
One of the main drivers of the increase in home gardens is obviously the desire for a healthier and more nutritious diet. Swiss families increasingly appreciate organic produce, and what better way to guarantee its quality than to grow it themselves? By growing their own fruit, vegetables and herbs, Swiss families have direct control over the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers, thus prioritising their own well-being and that of their loved ones.
Switzerland and sustainable living
The home garden aligns perfectly with Switzerland’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its ecological footprint. By growing their own food, people significantly reduce the distance it travels and the associated carbon emissions. In addition, the use of organic farming methods contributes to soil health, biodiversity conservation and the preservation of resources in general.
Connecting with nature
Participating in the home garden offers the Swiss an opportunity to reconnect with nature in the midst of their hectic urban lives. It provides a feeling of peace, tranquillity and a chance to escape the stress of daily routines. Spending time outdoors caring for plants and witnessing their growth first-hand helps foster a greater appreciation for the natural world and its delicate balance.
Switzerland: tradition and culture
In some parts of Switzerland, the cultivation of home gardens has a long tradition rooted in local culture. These regions have handed down knowledge and techniques from generation to generation, promoting a connection to roots and agricultural heritage. The cultivation of vegetable gardens is considered a valuable practice and an integral part of Swiss identity.
It is very interesting to see such kind of information in the beautiful Switzerland and its culture related to this topic:
There is a locality near Geneva (Switzerland) where most of the inhabitants produce their own food. It is the town of Les Avanchets, and some say it is the world epicentre of urban gardens. This small municipality with just over 5,000 inhabitants became popular thanks to the French photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand in his famous work ‘The Earth seen from the sky’.
In Les Avanchets, the policy of promoting urban gardens persists to this day. Most of its citizens grow organic and healthy fruit and vegetables not only for their own consumption, but also to share with their neighbours. In this way, the inhabitants’ healthy diet is promoted at the same time as creating a new form of social integration.
It is not just a vegetable garden, but a lifestyle
The Swiss care about their well-being and seek a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Cultivating vegetable gardens offers them the opportunity to have access to fresh food with a high nutritional quality. In addition, spending time outdoors cultivating their gardens allows them to exercise, reduce stress and establish a direct connection with nature, contributing to their general well-being.
In summary, the cultivation of home gardens has become a way of life in Switzerland, reflecting Swiss values of sustainability, quality of life and connection to nature. This practice promotes healthy eating, environmental protection, and the strengthening of local communities.
