Starting this year, Berlin’s Weltacker has expanded: On the beautiful grounds of the Späth Nursery in Treptow, the “Ackerlabor” is taking shape—our second plot of land, smaller in size but brimming with big ideas. Amid old trees, the joys of gardening, and city air, not only are vegetables growing here, but also an entirely new place for learning, discovering, and getting involved.
While our Weltacker in Pankow reflects current global agricultural practices, the Weltacker in Treptow shows that there are other ways to do things. Sustainable, diverse, climate-resilient—these are the guiding principles behind our work here. On 660 m², we test agroecological farming methods from around the world, invite people to get involved, and show how global agriculture can be understandable, tangible, and exciting—even right in the heart of Berlin.
And yes—we also do things the traditional way here: A “mini-Weltacker,” based on our well-known concept, demonstrates in a very small space what the world’s arable land looks like on a per-capita basis.
A real highlight: our milpa field. This ingenious trio of corn, beans, and squash comes from Central America and shows how supportive plant friendships work. The corn grows straight up, providing support for the beans. The beans return the favor by introducing nitrogen into the soil through their nodule-forming bacteria. And the squash? It simply lies flat, covering the ground and conserving water. That’s teamwork in the vegetable garden.
The pea-wheat field from the VORWERTS project is another eye-catcher. This is about more than just putting food on the table: the harvest is processed into regional protein bread. VORWERTS aims to show that mixed crops aren’t just good for animal feed—they also belong on our plates—delicious, sustainable, and regional. To achieve this, farmers, mills, bakeries, and consumers are working hand in hand.
There’s been a lot going on in recent weeks: Several field trips—including ones with the apprentices from Späth’s Tree Nursery—have brought the new area to life. Two Edaphonistas workshops with school classes brought soil life to life through sound—with magnifying glasses, microphones, and plenty of imagination, springtails and other creatures became real radio drama stars. Who would have thought that an earthworm had so much to say?
And the best part: Almost all of Weltacker Berlin e. V.’s educational programs are now also available in Treptow—whether it’s a soil workshop, teacher training, or a field tour. Just check out our offerings.
On September 2 and 3, 2025, our first summer camp will take place at the Weltacker in Treptow—for children ages 6 to 10. Armed with a trowel, a magnifying glass, and a keen eye, we’ll set out to uncover clues: Who actually lives in the soil? What grows there—and why? An exciting day for little explorers who love being outdoors. Admission is on a pay-what-you-can basis, ranging from 0 to 5 euros.
On September 16, Weltacker Berlin will participate in Berlin’s Volunteer Days. At the “Gemeinsame Sache” event, everyone is invited to lend a hand—whether it’s digging, watering, building, or asking questions. Working together is just more fun.
More and more people are discovering the new plot—and they’re thrilled. Whether they’re Berliners or international visitors from Ghana or Senegal, they say the Ackerlabor was the highlight of their tour. Maybe it’s the diversity. Maybe it’s the soil. Maybe it’s the pumpkin.
Either way: We look forward to your visit!
Since 2022, the Weltacker Youth Council has been working with us—an exciting project that brings young people in Berlin together. They all share one goal: a voice in Berlin’s food policy!