Small garden clubs are becoming more popular with younger people
Allotment associations are becoming increasingly popular among younger people in Saxony-Anhalt. In recent years, it has been successful in significantly lowering the average age in the associations, said Olaf Weber, president of the state association of garden enthusiasts, at a hearing in the state parliament.
The average age is now around 57 years, whereas a few years ago it was almost 64 years. While some allotment associations are struggling with aging, the situation is not as dire as demographic change had predicted. According to the state association, more than 78,200 allotment gardens are cultivated in Saxony-Anhalt, making it the second-largest state association in Germany, after Saxony. During the corona period, there was a significant increase in demand, but it has since stabilized, Weber emphasized. It is also normal for 30 to 40 percent to give up their gardens after some time.
However, those still looking for a garden have no problem finding a place in Saxony-Anhalt, unlike in large cities like Hamburg. The vacancy rate is between 10 and 12 percent. There can be significant differences in equipment, such as whether there is a hut in the garden or a water connection.
The average age in allotment associations, which was previously around 64 years, has significantly decreased to approximately 57 years due to their growing popularity among younger people. The decrease in the average age has helped mitigate concerns about aging in some associations, despite the demographic change predictions.
