A milestone for the Campus Garden

This year's unusually hot and dry summer, even by Würzburg standards, presented the Campus Garden at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) with a number of challenges. It therefore seemed almost ironic that the celebration marking the completion of construction work took place in autumn drizzle. Fortunately, those attending could seek shelter from the rain in the stuv hub, located right next to the garden.

The unsettled weather did nothing to dampen spirits, however, as there was plenty to celebrate. After almost five years of work, the physical development of the Campus Garden at Hubland Nord is complete, at least for the time being. The final additions were two greenhouses and a fence and hedge enclosing the site.

The event on 23 October was therefore dedicated to recognising all the dedicated volunteers who have invested countless hours in building and maintaining the garden since day one.

A real success story

When the idea of a Campus Garden first took root in the Ecology Department of the Student Representation in 2014, the university leadership at the time was not entirely convinced. How would such a project survive the constant turnover of students? Was the Hubland campus even suitable for growing flowers, fruit, vegetables, and herbs? More than twelve years and one relocation later, these concerns have been completely dispelled.

Today, around 100 students cultivate the garden's 80 beds. Many former gardeners have maintained close ties with the project. One of them is alumnus Pascal Bunk, the founder and now self-proclaimed "Senior Consultant" of the Campus Garden. In his welcoming address, he recalled how a lecture had once inspired him to put ecological theory into practice.

The university leadership, represented by President Paul Pauli, Chancellor Dr. Uwe Klug, and Vice-President Anja Schlömerkemper, also offered their congratulations. All three emphasised the tremendous commitment shown by the students.

Trust well placed

"The garden shows what is possible when people work together. The university placed its trust in the students, and they have repaid that trust by actively shaping their campus and making it a better place to be," said Pauli.

Uwe Klug highlighted three forms of commitment: "The commitment to volunteering and creating something alongside one's studies. The commitment to others, which is particularly evident in the garden's inclusive features. And the commitment to the environment. The garden is an excellent example of climate adaptation in practice."

"The garden is a wonderful example of how sustainability can be put into practice at the university. As a place that welcomes everyone, it also demonstrates how inclusion and participation can work successfully," added Anja Schlömerkemper.

In summer 2026, the Campus Garden took further steps towards greater accessibility and inclusion by adding an accessible pathway and four wheelchair-friendly raised beds.

More than just garden beds

The Campus Garden is more than just a place where students can grow plants. It is a place for people to meet and come together. For Julian Müller, Head of the Ecology Department, it is above all "an example of a place where young people can make a difference and bring about change. It provides opportunities for active involvement and encourages people to take action."

Speaking on behalf of the Student Representation, Tobias Haase described the garden as "a place that promotes health and social sustainability. As a project that brings different groups together, it offers a retreat for many different people at the university."

One message was repeated almost like a mantra throughout the afternoon: A garden is never truly finished. The milestone now reached can therefore be seen as another step towards a flourishing future for the project.