As summers become increasingly dry, KU Leuven and the Province of Flemish Brabant are investigating how gardens can contribute to a more climate-resilient Flanders. Through the “Researching in Your Own Garden!” kit, freely available on MijnTuinlab.be, citizens are encouraged to test their garden's resilience themselves.
This initiative, developed with provincial support, empowers families to become researchers in their own backyards. Using simple materials and practical experiments, participants will measure their soil's water absorption, soil life activity, sunlight and shade levels, and the presence of local wildlife. They will also discover elements that enhance biodiversity and how different garden components function together.
The kit includes ten child-friendly experiments, ranging from an initial garden exploration to designing a more climate-resilient dream garden. These tests are designed for independent execution, allowing everyone to contribute to the research.
Private gardens, covering approximately 12% of Flanders – more than forests and protected nature combined – play a significant role as small climate buffers. They can capture rainwater, provide cooling, support biodiversity, and help mitigate drought periods. The design and management of a garden are crucial factors.
The recent dry summer has made the impact of gardens on the climate tangible. The DIY kit helps participants better understand these changes and identify opportunities for their gardens, leading to more conscious choices about garden design and management.
The Province of Flemish Brabant is actively promoting the project. Interested individuals can register via MijnTuinlab.be to access the brochure with instructions. The project is open to everyone in Flanders.
Bart Nevens, deputy for environment, emphasizes the importance of every garden: “Every garden, big or small, can make a difference for our biodiversity. Through this project, residents learn to see their garden with new eyes.” This initiative complements the campaign Leve de Tuin (Long Live the Garden), inspiring residents to create green, climate-resilient spaces.
