The gardens in Aretxabaleta began their preparation this week, with the initial phase involving the removal of existing plants and grass. Subsequently, the ground will be left to rest, and the new planting will take place in a couple of weeks. According to forecasts, the gardens will showcase their renewed appearance by early July.
These naturalistic gardens are composed of perennial plants, meaning they live for many years and present a different appearance each season. Although they may appear dry or withered in winter, they do not die and regrow with leaves and flowers in spring. Ion Albizu, the municipal councilor for Urbanism, explains that these plants do not require annual replanting, which helps reduce maintenance tasks and water consumption.
The adaptation of these naturalistic gardens has been awarded to the company Loratu, which specializes in such designs and has experience in other towns. The project aims to enhance aesthetics, creating gardens with diverse heights and textures. Once adapted, the ongoing maintenance will be handled by the local company Makai of Aretxabaleta, in line with the management of other public spaces in the municipality.
The preparation work has sparked interest among residents. Albizu noted that citizens will need to adapt to this new style. The intention is to extend this type of gardening to other areas of the town, such as Lausitta and other sections of the Araba Promenade, with the goal of achieving neater gardens and improved aesthetics.
“"They are dynamic gardens; their appearance changes according to the season"
Gorka Esnal Andueza, a member of Loretan Taldea SL and responsible for the naturalistic garden design, explains that perennial plants and grasses are used. Perennials live for many years, and their life cycle adapts to the seasons, repeating annually. Imported species are also incorporated for aesthetic appeal, provided they adapt well to the local climate. According to Esnal, these naturalistic gardens are not common in the Basque Country but are a growing trend originating from the north. He also notes it's a matter of fashion, akin to contemporary art.
Esnal also highlights the impact of climate change on gardens, necessitating an adaptation of knowledge. He explains that rapid transitions between summer and winter are affecting plants, leading to the use of species previously not employed.
