Rescue for the old ginkgo: concerns about Schleusingen's natural monument!

Rescue for the old ginkgo: concerns about Schleusingen's natural monument!

In the picturesque Johannispark in Schleusingen, a ginkgo tree has grown dear to local residents for at least 150 years. But the construction work on the adjacent new building of the Workers' Welfare Association for the Elderly, Youth and Social Welfare (Awo-AJS) is casting a shadow on the venerable plant. How inSouth Thuringia Reportedly, construction activity has drawn attention to the tree and there are legitimate concerns that it may not withstand the work.

The Ginkgo biloba, a true “living fossil,” originally comes from China and is known to be over 1,000 years old. This tree species, which is considered the oldest living species, found its way to Europe as early as the 18th century. In Germany there are several among the oldest ginkgos, with the one in Rödelheim probably being the oldest, planted around 1750. At 150 years old, the ginkgo in Johannispark is not the oldest, but for the citizens of Schleusingen it is still a valuable part of their history.

Focus on preserving the tree

With the upcoming construction work, the focus is now also on the mayor of Schleusingen, who is actively committed to preserving the ginkgo. The Awo-AJS itself has loudly inSouth Thuringia Measures have already been taken to protect the tree during the construction phase. Discussions with local residents and experts continue to look for solutions to preserve the ginkgo and at the same time move forward with construction work. “There’s something going on,” you might say, because many people are fighting for the tree, which is not only a pretty ornamental piece but also has great emotional significance for the community.

This species of ginkgo tree began its journey to Europe over 290 million years ago and is known for its robustness. The oldest ginkgoes in China are said to be up to 4,500 years old, which shows how special this tree species is. The distribution area of ​​the gorse powers has extended to all of Europe over the last few centuries; Ginkgos can now be found as green giants in numerous parks and gardens.

Preserve a piece of history

The discussion about the ginkgo tree in Schleusingen is not just a local concern. Given the history of this tree species and its cultural significance, here is an example of how communities care for the heritage of their surroundings. Whether as an ornamental tree or as part of the historical landscape, the ginkgo is very important in Germany and beyond. It remains to be hoped for the residents in Schleusingen that this ginkgo tree can stand in Johannispark for many years to come and preserve their memories for future generations.