In recent years, the Dechen Chöling garden has been cared for by a small group of dedicated volunteers. However, it soon became clear that more time and resources were needed to transform this beautiful space into a true place of renewal: an oasis for visitors to wander through, a rich resource for kado ikebana practice, and a garden capable of supplying the kitchen with fresh herbs during the summer months.
Thanks to the generous support of the Europe Donor Group, Dechen Chöling was able to support Emmanuel in committing to a year as a volunteer gardener. He took up his role in October 2025 and shares below a first progress update on the work carried out by the end of December.
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Hello everyone,
The garden has now entered its winter phase. Autumn was an opportunity for a thorough clean-up, the planting of bulbs, and the creation of two lasagna beds—made up of successive layers of branches, compost, soil, and dry grass—installed in the concrete seed beds at the entrance to the garden.
At the same time, Emmanuel built a 20 m² bamboo pergola next to the well, finally bringing much-needed shade to this area.
A collective decision was made to rework the soil of the entire garden. The many mole tunnels had made it impossible to use the ride-on mower. This project also offers an opportunity to rethink the size and layout of the beds. The paths will be widened to allow Mickaël to pass with the tractor, ensuring the garden can be maintained even when there is no dedicated gardener present. Existing rose bushes and some perennial plants were temporarily moved so they can later be replanted in the newly designed beds.
Radovan, a professional landscape gardener, spent two weeks working in the garden. Together with Emmanuel, he redesigned the bed layouts and drew up a list of perennials suited to the site. The focus was placed mainly on flowering plants, to support ikebana workshops and the creation of floral arrangements for Dechen. The beds will be covered with wood chips (BRF – wood chips), a natural solution to limit weed growth and retain moisture in the soil.
A new idea also emerged: to create a green space dedicated to yoga or relaxation, enclosed by a hedge to offer privacy.
In the greenhouse, Emmanuel will soon be sowing flowers and aromatic herbs to be used in the kitchen.
Radovan has gathered all this work into detailed plans. All that remains is for you to explore them at your leisure—and perhaps feel inspired to join us for a course, a visit, or simply to enjoy this newly renewed garden.
