To acquire an allotment in Switzerland, one must meet certain criteria: typically, having lived in Switzerland for an extended period and demonstrating a strong connection to the community. However, the process may vary depending on the canton.
Allotment gardens, a common sight outside city centers, are individual plots of land on municipal property that people can rent to grow food, flowers, or other plants. These gardens serve multiple purposes—from cultivating produce for personal consumption to providing social interaction opportunities.
Originating in the late 1920s, these gardens were primarily a means for the less affluent to grow their own food for survival and to sell excess crops to others. However, as the years passed, they've also become places where people from diverse backgrounds mingle, build communities, and cultivate their local environment.
According to the Living Swiss Traditions website, these gardens are in abundant supply, especially in urban areas. But just like a river that bisects a town, the availability and rental conditions of these gardens differ from one locality to another.
Though the core principles behind these green spaces have remained mostly unchanged, the majority of the contemporary allotment gardeners are hobbyists rather than survivalists. These principles involve respecting nature, preserving spaces for biodiversity, conscious consumption of agricultural products, and promoting social and intercultural interaction spaces.
Various municipalities have their own rules for the use of these gardens. For instance, Zurich prohibits the use of herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers, among other things. It's always best to familiarize yourself with your local rules before setting up shop.
Wanna know where to find allotment gardens in your neck of the woods? Simply take a peek at the SFGV website, which features an interactive map indicating their locations. Generally, cities with a larger population tend to have more gardens than rural areas.
To become an allotment garden gal or guy, start by contacting your municipality to learn about the application process, eligibility criteria, and costs. But what if you're on a waiting list as long as a European winter? Fret not! You can try renting a plot from an SFGV member, information for which can be found on their website.
(For the record, allotment gardens are called 'Familiengaertner' in German, 'jardins familiaux' in French, and 'giardini familiari' in Italian.)
Engaging in hobbies like home-and-garden activities or gardening can complement an allotment lifestyle, providing a sense of personal growth and community involvement. By transforming these plots into vibrant home-and-garden spaces, allotment gardeners not only contribute to local biodiversity but also foster cultural exchange and friendship.
