Knivsta berry orchard and sand bed

In Knivsta municipality, a new meeting place, the Knivsta Sports and Culture Centre (CIK), hosts a significant part of the young population. Both during school hours and in their free time, children and young people are attracted here to participate in various sports and cultural activities. However, the surrounding area is characterized by gravel and asphalt, with traces of previous construction activities. There is a clear opportunity to improve the area by adding natural values and greenery.

That’s why project manager Jon decided to do something about it. The goal was to create an easily accessible and inviting place, especially for children and young people who often visit the area. The place will function as a learning environment where visitors can explore edible berries and learn how to grow and use them. Jon describes the place as previously being like a ”biological desert”, and thanks to him, various types of berry bushes, apple trees, rhubarb and herbs now grow here, among other things. To strengthen biodiversity and ecosystem services, a sand bed was also established to benefit wild bees and other pollinators.

Jon has successfully involved several partners, such as the local association Knivsta trädgårdssällskap who designed the garden, the County Administrative Board who held a course in fence construction, and of course the municipality. Young people working in the summer were able to collaborate with artists to build the seating areas in the garden, which are creatively designed to create multiple nesting sites for insects. The innovative elements form a whole, and provide a pleasant gathering place near the center for both insects and people.

For those who want to take a walk and be inspired, rest or sample berries, the garden is open to the public to visit. The berry garden and the sand bed are fine examples of how collaboration can lead to a positive nature experience for a diverse range of people.

Read more about Jon's project and our visit here.