Winter preparations

In winter, the alpine garden is covered with nets to protect the plants from hungry rooks. The rooks search the Garden for lush greenery and love to pluck the alpine plants. In general, the Botanical Garden provides plenty of winter food for birds, squirrels and other animals. The more than 800 trees and shrubs offer plenty of seeds, cones and fruit for the animals.

In autumn, the gardeners collect the leaves and put them into piles. These piles provide shelter for many small animals in cold weather and protect heat-loving plants. They insulate the soil around the roots and prevent frost from forming in the soil. Some plants are also wrapped in cloth to protect the buds and shoots from frost. These measures make it possible for fig tree, honey bush, lotus and other exotic plants to survive the Viennese winter outdoors.