How to run an extensive grassland management programme in a metropolis?

The Municipality of Budapest and FŐKERT have already introduced several elements of nature-friendly, near-natural green space management in their park maintenance practices. In the spring of 2021, they took a new step towards more ecological maintenance with a new programme: an extensive grassland management programme was introduced, which has created more than 28 hectares of insect-friendly green spaces in the capital's parks and green strips.

By rethinking and redesigning the management of urban green spaces in an ecological way, they can do a lot to preserve biodiversity and have a good chance of attracting species back into the urban environment.

The solution is actually not too complicated: instead of the intensive mowing of lawns 5-7 times a year, parks are designated with patches where wildflowers have time to develop, flower, mature, seed and spread while maintaining 1-3 mowing.

Wildflowers and less disturbed green spaces provide habitat and feeding areas for insect species, which also provide food for birds. Taller grass retains more dew and water, which has a positive effect on soil-water balance, so it is less likely to dry out in times of drought.

What else FŐKERT is doing all around the city for biodiversity and environmental protection? - building community composting sites; - installing insect-hotels; - planting trees and mini-forests; - picking garbage from green areas; - installing bird nesting boxes; - envionmental education for local citizens.

Would you like to learn more about practises in Budapest?

Visit the website or SM channel of FŐKERT.