A patch of garden lies among the University of Konstanz’s façades and windows, easy to miss in the rush of campus life. Beds, dense greenery and a small greenhouse form a surprisingly green corner in the middle of the university complex.
The University locates its Campus Gemüse garden on the roof of level H1 between buildings G and H, above the G1 exit. The area is tended by the Campus Gemüse Konstanz student group. The initiative dates back to 2013, when it began with a few planters and raspberry plants between buildings F and G. [1] [2]
Gardening is organised collectively. At the start of each season, members review what worked the previous year and decide what they would like to grow. They buy seeds together, divide up the beds and plan who will look after each crop. [1]
In a university report published in spring 2025, the crops included pumpkins, tomatoes, cucumbers, aubergines, potatoes, carrots, beetroot, onions and strawberries. Berry bushes and rhubarb grow there too. The harvest is shared among the group and some of it is prepared together. [1]
The garden is more than a green patch between buildings. Planting, weeding and harvesting create a shared space away from lecture halls and the library. It is a practical example of student engagement becoming part of everyday campus life.
According to the University, students and staff are welcome to join, even without gardening experience. Anyone interested can contact the group at campusgemuese@uni-konstanz.de. [3]