Join Us in Planting a "Knick" of Diversity—Part 2

What's it all about?
In connection with the nationwide hedge conference taking place October 12–14, 2025, in Hamburg, we’ve already planted a colorful, bee-friendly hedgerow with you that stretches over 150 meters.
Now we want to plant another 140 meters to complete the hedgerow.
Knick hedges are the traditional form of hedge in Schleswig-Holstein: The shrubs grow on an earthen embankment, which significantly increases ecological diversity thanks to its unique microclimate. Typical vegetation includes blackthorns, hazel, and many other native species, which can be “cut back to the stump” every 10 years; this radical pruning causes them to constantly regenerate down to the rootstock, In the process, oaks, linden trees, and other large trees are left standing as “overhead trees.” In this planting, we place special emphasis on the bee-friendliness of the tree and shrub species: They are intended to provide pollen and nectar not only to the bees of the Kattendorf apiary but also to numerous wild bees and other insects for as long a period as possible.

Who are we planting for?
The Kattendorfer Hof farms approximately 435 hectares of land near Kattendorf and Neverstaven in Schleswig-Holstein according to Demeter guidelines and the principles of community-supported agriculture. Founded in 1995, the farm is well known for its direct sales through farm stands and harvest subscriptions in Hamburg and the surrounding region. In addition to vegetable farming, the Kattendorfer Hof community also engages in crop farming and raises about 60 cows, whose milk is processed in their own cheese dairy. Angler Sattelschweine pigs round out the farm’s consistently implemented ecological circular economy.
www.kattendorfer-hof.de

Due to a construction project at the Kattendorfer Hof, an earthen embankment was built two years ago to serve as a foundation for planting a hedgerow, which will enhance the ecological value of our own land and separate it from our conventional neighbor’s property. With your support, we’re now tackling this project together! 

No prior experience necessary—our planting team will provide a hands-on introduction, and we look forward to welcoming anyone who wants to try something new. 

Above all, bring a good attitude and a desire to enjoy the fresh air and damp soil! We’ll provide plenty of tools. But feel free to bring your own shovel or gardening gloves—that helps because we don’t always have a shovel for every participant in larger groups. Other than that, please be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. When you register, you’ll receive a checklist so you don’t forget anything important. 

Our motto is: Nature conservation with a touch of indulgence! That’s why we always provide a light breakfast snack and a delicious hot lunch. Whenever possible, we enjoy tasty meals provided by the farms where we’re planting. We’ll do our best to accommodate special dietary needs if you indicate them on the registration form. As for drinks, we’ll have plenty of water (still and sparkling) for everyone, and we’ll provide tea and coffee whenever you’d like.