Project blog - how the cooperation went in 2023
What you will learn here
- How did the project fare in 2023?
- What we achieved
- What's new
- What are we planning?
Last updated: 9/1/2023
Year two – 2023
4/1/2023
The year has barely begun and our hands are already itching. The very second week of January, we will start pruning trees and cleaning the garden. The trees are sleeping, the snow has long since melted, so let's get to it.
The bank plans to involve employees, but we thought it would be a good idea to involve the skilled people from Farkáně and Waltrovka as well. After all, the cider house in the fall of last year was popular, so let's go for it!
Ondra got together with Martina, Alica and Tereza. We immediately decided to invite the Farkáňský spolek and Waltrovka would certainly not be embarrassed.
As always - word got out and the invitation flew out into the world.
Bumblebees PLUS – Tree pruning event in gardens
8/1/2023
8/1/2023
Instead of lunch, we prepare the materials and head to the meeting point. We are very curious to see how many of us will actually come. We estimate 10.
We're meeting soon and there are many more of us - brave ones. What normal person would go out to work in the cold instead of Sunday lunch???
Ondra will briefly introduce the project, Michal and Vojta, and our plans for today.
We primarily want to prune fruit trees and clean up branches. The wood chips from these will be the basis for compost and the planned beekeeping site.
We will dig under the trees and plant marigolds and ferns in the cleared areas.
We also handed out garbage bags so that nothing was left behind and also to pick up the mess that people leave here - glass, plastic, and fireworks remnants - oh my.
But we will re-sow some places with seeds, etc.
Michal and Vojta broke up the groups and provided basic instructions for pruning fruit trees, and everyone got to work.
Pruning trees in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
Pruning trees in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
Pruning trees in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
Pruning trees in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
Vojta and Michal comment on this photo of themselves with the classic words: "They may not take a branch in their hand, but they are experts who take their word for it ."
But admit it yourself how much we were all able to do together – AWESOME!
Pruning trees in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
Pruning trees in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
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We have also improved the network of the home of the forest ants that live here. Thanks to this, they will not be threatened by work or curious dogs. We also used the "free space" by the road for advertising. Will there be an alternative to the "Gardener of Kersk" next time?
Pruning trees in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
tree pruning in gardens
Photo: O. Hercog (8/1 2023)
We worked for several hours, there was no time to rest. We finished our supply of sweets and drank the wine we brought.
No one needed to be pushed, everyone worked hard. Even though we hadn't met most of the people who came yet, we made a great group. Together with Vojta and Michal, we answered a lot of questions about the ride, nature protection, etc.
Who actually came?
Neighbors from Farkány came, but also from Malvaziny and Waltrovka. New friends from Ukraine also came and did a lot of work. We even talked about their countries and it didn't matter at all that we spoke a different language.
Many people walked around us and it was clear that they would get involved. At least they asked what was going on and what we were doing there. Most of them thanked us. They praised the changes that are already visible on the property and the pile of branches from the old grass and leaves that were taken away.
If you didn't find yourself in the photos, take a look HERE . If you want to share your experiences with new friends, send your photos and reactions to info@cmelaciplus.cz
Friends, we have to thank everyone. Even though the event was called at short notice, many of you came and did an enormous amount of work together – THANK YOU!!!
As we said at the end, we will repeat the event and support it with neighborhood entertainment, roasting sausages, cider tasting, and many other ideas that we have prepared for you.
If you liked the event and what we are doing, share your impressions with others and invite them!
10-12/1/2023
The "pruning of fruit trees" event continues. Please keep your fingers crossed for good weather and participation!
If you want, join in and make new friends from among ČSOB employees.
...we are preparing a report
11/1/2023
The entire event, as well as the lecture, enjoyed great attendance.
Over 25 ČSOB employees – nature and gardening lovers – came. Michal introduced the basic rules of fruit tree care to the gathered, and then they went to a practical demonstration of fruit tree pruning.
Michal tried to answer all the questions from the participants (and there were many). Despite the unpleasant winter weather and the need to return to work, the lecture lasted over two hours.
Everyone really enjoyed the lecture, it was very interesting, informative and practical. We wish everyone a successful gardening season and fruit picking, which will hopefully appear thanks to pruning.
Paulina
Fruit tree pruning course
Photo: P. Jirsová (11/01/2023)
Fruit tree pruning course
Photo: P. Jirsová (11/01/2023)
Fruit tree pruning course
Photo: P. Jirsová (11/01/2023)
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11/1/2023
Do you know what is in this picture?
Yes, it's a stag beetle larva (Lucanus cervus )! Michal found it today in the gardens of Staré Radlice, while he and others were working on pruning trees.
This is a rather significant find and also proof that an old garden, where an old tree, stump, or trunk is left standing, can be home to interesting insects.
One of them is just such a beautiful beetle – the best-known representative of the beetles from the family Stag beetles and also the largest beetle in Europe. In the Czech Republic, it was widespread in deciduous forests throughout the country, but today its occurrence is localized to several areas. It is most abundant in South Moravia. With the removal of old trees and stumps, the natural habitat and source of livelihood of this beetle is disappearing. This is reducing the population of the common stag beetle, but also of other species of beetles living in the same environment, and the common stag beetle is thus placed on the world list of endangered species.
Readers of Ferdy Mravenc are certainly familiar with it, but why did we find it here? There are forest ants on the property and we protect them, so it is obvious that Roháč, the blond Ladybug and others must be there too.
The common stag beetle lives in the hollows of old trees and in dead stumps in forests and groves. It is found around Radlice, where there are green areas and old trees. You can read more about it HERE
Old rotting wood in the garden is a real treasure and a source of life. There is no point in cleaning it up, maybe until it completely decomposes. But even then it is the basis for other different species and forms of life – try it and see for yourself! You can learn more about it on this page https://lesodiverzita.cz/
We are very happy that Prague is green in some parts and hopefully it will stay that way if we work together. The same can be true in other cities, perhaps yours.
Our project also includes reducing our carbon footprint. That is why we compost grass clippings, raked leaves and small branches and leave them on site – in composters made from local wood. We chip the thicker branches and this material will also remain on the property, as the basis of the beetle nest.
We will either use the trunks and thick branches and trunks for small structures on site, or we will leave them lying around or standing. They will be a home for beetles, a shelter for birds and perhaps they will find such a place for the beautiful woodpeckers that are also found here.
Larva of the common hornbill - (Lucanus cervus}
Photo: Michal Plundra (11/1/2023)
Common pronghorn (Lucanus cervus)
Photo: Wiki
Common pronghorn (Lucanus cervus)
Photo: Wiki
Roháč and Ferda Mravenec
Source: Internet
15/1/2023
Work was still being done on the property today, and dedicated helpers came there today.
Vojta continued pruning the fruit trees, and Olena's Ukrainian friends and family helped clean up the cut branches.
Even though it wasn't our original plan, the project is now international. It's not just Olena, but many others from the Farkáň and Waltrovka areas have selflessly joined in and helped. They feel that our citizens support them and are trying to give back without any compensation - thank you!
This year's pruning of fruit trees is complete. We still want to start raking the remaining grass and also pruning some bushes. If you feel like it, follow our Facebook and website and get involved.
Pruning trees in the gardens of old Radlice
Photo: V. Koštíř (15/1/2023)
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Pruning trees in the gardens of old Radlice
Photo: V. Koštíř (15/1/2023)
Pruning trees in the gardens of old Radlice
Photo: V. Koštíř (15/1/2023)
Pruning trees in the gardens of old Radlice
Photo: V. Koštíř (15/1/2023)
12/2/2023
Spring is already here. In the spring, snowdrops bloom and seeds from the autumn sowing sprout.
Spring is already here
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/20232)
Spring is already here
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/20232)
1/2/2023
We are still planning for 2023. If it works out, sheep will appear on the land. We will make mowers out of them and it will be interesting for children and parents. Keep your fingers crossed!
12/2/2023
We started cutting down a landscape element – a forest-steppe on the ČSOB land. It is a significant landscape element that has unfortunately become overgrown and needs to regain its significance.
As part of the revitalization project, the bank applied for approval and a landscaping company under our leadership began clearing the forest. We are not going to cut it down, but we want to brighten it up, create bare spots and return the original habitat to them.
As planned, we will process the excavated material into wood chips or use it on the property to build play or relaxation elements. We will use a lot of material for the beetle nest and other necessary composters
Here is a short photo report.
There was a forest-steppe here and part of it will return there again. Did you know that there were large apricot orchards and places where citizens went to sunbathe? Well... and certainly not just to sunbathe 😀
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog {12/2/2023)
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
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The lower edge of the forest is already being cleared
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
We are trying to communicate the events on the property so that the public knows what is happening here. As you can see, citizens are interested, and that is very good.
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
We document places that will soon be replaced by light-filled forest and grassland.
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
The material from pruning fruit trees is chipped. The chips will be used for the beech forest, but also for some side roads.
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
Cross-section of forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
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22/2/2023
Did you know that there is an old well hidden in the hillside? The Farkáň Association came up with the idea of trying to restore it together. Paulína agrees and so we will soon set off on another good journey.
We don't expect water to flow here. But even if it just drips, it will liven up the whole area and be a watering hole for birds and insects. We will try to involve other citizens, so keep your fingers crossed for us
Fountain in the garden
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
Fountain in the garden
Photo: O. Hercog (12/2/2023)
23/2/2023
Today the first seminar of the year took place at the bank. There will be several events that we are planning for this year for employees, but also for citizens in the area.
It was nice to meet people who are interested in nature and bumblebees. We want to create a bank team from them that will take care of the bumblebees on the roof, and we will support them in this.
If you want to see some of the slides, you can find them HERE
Beekeeper at ČSOB
Photo: O. Hercog (23/2/2023
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23/2/2023
The seeds sown on the plot last fall are already sprouting. We are preparing for the next sowing. It will take place on 3/3 in the morning - will you join us ?
You can register on our Facebook page Čmeláci PLUS , or write to us at info@cmelaciplus.cz
3/3/2023
Work on clearing the forest steppe continues. It is the area between the bank building (NHQ) and the construction on the hill.
In the picture you can see the state about 10 years ago. During that time, the steppe is disappearing and overgrown with invasive trees.
Together with the bank and with the consent of the HPMP Municipality, we have embarked on the gradual restoration of this interesting area.
It will be a job that will take several years. It also requires some serious muscles and stamina, the slope is really steep.
Radlice Forest Steppe – VKP – Map of partial areas
Photo: HMP Municipality
There used to be an apricot orchard on this site. Now there are a few trees that have survived and which we want to leave there out of piety – to preserve the genius loci of this place.
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe – Old Apricot
Photo: O. Hercog (3/3/2023)
Here are some photos from Friday's tour.
Michal and the CENTRE staff are doing a great job there. We plan to gradually uncover the hidden remains of the steppe, connect them with communication routes and, if successful, let live mowers get to work.
But what worries us is the mess in the bushes left by homeless people and also the syringes in the grass.
We are organizing a neighborhood brigade here to clean up the mess and rake up the leaves that were left under the cut bushes. This will speed up the return of the grass and the live mowers will then help us with the threshing that is sure to appear here.
Will you also join in helping this interesting place?
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe – Will it be possible to get sheep here?
Photo: O. Hercog (3/3/2023)
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe – Will it be possible to get sheep here?
Photo: O. Hercog
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe – Will it be possible to get sheep here?
Photo: O. Hercog
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe
Photo: O. Hercog
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe – Vojta, Ondra and Michal
Photo: O. Hercog (3/3/2023)
10/3/2023
We received seedlings of the Carthusian Dianthus ( Dianthus carthusianorum) - thank you!
The carnation belongs in dry places in the forest-steppe, where we will plant it as part of a volunteer day. Those dry meadows will suit it and it will beautify them there.
We are discussing with the municipality other options for how to return the plant species that belong there to those places.
The municipality supports us, they like our plans and the use of living lawns as a natural way of restoring and maintaining similar locations
Dianthus carthusianorum
Photo: Wiki
Dianthus carthusianorum
Photo: O. Hercog (10/03/2023)
2/4/2023
Ondra went around the lower part of the garden and planted seedlings of white deadnettle (Lamium album). They are an important food for bumblebees. Many other insects, such as recluses, also feed on them.
Together we are creating areas under fruit trees that will not be cut and that will protect the trees from damage. The gall midges will thrive in the partial shade and, together with the yellow sedge (Galeobdolon luteum), will create additional food sources for local gnomes.
We planted the pitulniki in January as part of the pruning and as you can see, most of them have taken root beautifully and will bloom in the spring.
The comfrey we planted here last year as part of a volunteer day is sprouting beautifully.
Planting of sedges
Photo: O. Hercog (2/4/2023)
Planting of sedges
Photo: O. Hercog (2/4/2023)
Planting of white-bellied woodpeckers - white-bellied woodpeckers
Photo: O. Hercog (2/4/2023)
Planting of sedges - yellow sedge
Photo: O. Hercog (2/4/2023)
Kostival
Photo: O. Hercog (2/4/2023)
19/4/2023
Vojta set out to monitor the garden's sowing, which took place before the winter of 2022-23. Unfortunately, the warm January and February awakened many seeds prematurely, and some then froze in March.
The areas where the bank will be preparing space for a kindergarten have taken root the best - the common marigold, the cockscomb (it took root in the trampled places, sown in the grass), the daisies - they will bloom next year (they will have to be cut earlier than the rest to make a bunch). The areas that are more visible have taken root the worst, perhaps because there are more dogs walking around here, etc. But the final result is satisfactory!
A legume that bumblebees love and that parasitizes and attaches itself to the roots of grass. This will help other plants, which will get a chance to grow in the places that the grass would otherwise take for itself.
Vojta then added some more seeds to increase species diversity, for example with bushy vetch seeds.
The comfrey, which Ondra brought from Vítek Cach from Polička and which Jana and Paulína planted as part of Volunteer Day 2022, also took root well.
Islands of other plants also sprout nicely.
Vojta also dug up the anthill with the wood ants, which will get more sunlight. They are already awake. It's a good thing we covered them with a net in the fall. In the winter, dogs or birds didn't dig them up. Well, tell me – bank ants, who has it today? 😀
The garden is coming to life, and not just because it's spring - stop by and see for yourself!
Sowing 2023 – Comfrey
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Sowing 2023 – Comfrey
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Sowing 2023 – Cockerel legume
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Sowing 2023 – Cockerel legume
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Sowing 2023 – White Daisy
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Sowing 2023 – White Daisy
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Sowing 2023 – Wood ants
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Sowing 2023 – Wood ants
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Until 2023
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
Until 2023
Photo: V. Koštíř (19/04/2023)
17/4/2023
Join the event we are organizing for ČSOB as as part of their campaign "ČSOB Changes Czech Republic" and the event "Commuting program 2023", which supports the movement of employees and at the same time reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation to and from work.
We also invited neighbors from Farkáně, Waltrovka and Malzavinky. They will certainly be appealed by Vojta, as a guide, and also by the weather that we ordered.
Event date: 21/4/2023
point: 15:00 in front of the bank by the chapel
End: 17:00 Zlíchov tram station
Route: https://mapy.cz/s/pafebakace
We will first go to the former Frič farm on the ČSOB land, where we will talk about its history, the bombing in 1945 and look at the old trees that experienced the greatest glory of the farm. In addition, we will also talk about the changes in park care that ČSOB has been involved in since last year. These are intended to support biodiversity. We will show you live insects that can be found in the park.
Next, we will head towards Dívčé hrady, where, in cooperation with the Prague Zoo, Převalsky horses are being grazed in order to support biodiversity.
We will inspect the horses from the observation deck and head towards the Děvín hillfort (a famous location from the film Občanský průkaz).
There is a beautiful view of Prague from there and here we will talk about the history of the hillfort and show you the butterflies, bumblebees and insects that live in this location as well as the plants on which they graze.
Then we will go towards Hlubočepy, walk through the old buildings known from Jaroslav Foglar's books and, depending on your preferences, end the walk at the tram stop at Zlíchov or Smíchovské nádraží.
Bumblebees PLUS – Guided walk to the Girls' Castles – 2023
Bumblebees PLUS – Guided walk to the Girls' Castles – 2023
Source: Mapy.cz
Bumblebees PLUS – Guided walk to the Girls' Castles – 2023
Photo:
Internet
21/4/2023
We're going for a walk!
The whole thing could be dismissed as "Whoever didn't come, as if he didn't exist", but seriously.
We met at the chapel on the corner of the bank, classic "Walkout Participants". But not only employees came, but also neighbors and those who learned about the event from FB. This is great, because this is exactly what our events are aimed at - to connect the banking institution with the surrounding area and establish new friendships and alliances.
Ondra and Slávek Holík presented today's event and, together with Paulína, a project to revitalize the surrounding area.
Vojta presented the "plan of attack" and immediately pulled out the tools, namely the insect-catching cans. This was so that the participants would not only take away kilometers on their feet, but also some information.
We immediately started looking for insect samples and Vojta identified them on the spot. He always added some interesting story to it.
First we walked through a part of the garden and then we set off up the hill, towards Dívčí hrady and beyond. Sometimes it was a difficult path, Vojta took us through places where he and his sheep walk, so it was worth it!
Maybe instead of words, look at the photo report. From it you will see how the disparate group became a good bunch and how the walk did not end with a simple "Hello", but with a sitting down with a well-deserved and well-smoothed drink.
What can you do better next time? Maybe don't be afraid to promote the event more and attract more interested people.
Do you want to repeat a similar event? Just tell ČSOB, or write to us on FB Čmeláci PLUS , or at info@cmelaciplus.cz
A walk around Radlice
Photo: A. Trägerová (21/04/2023)
A walk around Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (21/04/2023)
A walk around Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová
A walk around Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (21/04/2023)
A walk around Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (21/04/2023)
A walk around Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (21/04/2023)
A walk around Radlice
Photo: S. Holík (21/04/2023)
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If you want to see more photos from the event, check HERE
A walk among the herbs
Source: ČSOB
3/5/2023
Today was a day for Michal and the bank employees, a walk to find herbs in the Farkáň Forest Park took place.
A walk through the bank's garden
Photo: P. Jirsová (3/05/2023)
A walk through the bank's garden
Photo: P. Jirsová (3/05/2023)
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A walk through the bank's garden
Photo: P. Jirsová (3/05/2023)
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A walk through the bank's garden
Photo: P. Jirsová (3/05/2023)
On Wednesday, May 3, ČSOB employees took a walk, where we talked mainly about the herb layer of the local forest park and the properties and abilities of the herbs found there.
We started from the very basics and talked about the importance of plants as such and that plants are really not just an oxygen factory.
The group (about 25 people) was quite playful, so we even had a competition in identifying the fruits of wild plants, assigning plants to families, and then we searched for and tasted the medicinal plants found here.
We walked around the entire area and talked about the individual habitats and characteristics of the vegetation found there. The walk took about 1.5 hours.
We really enjoyed the event, and we look forward to repeating it.
Paulina
4/5/2023
Preparations for Volunteer Day 5/2023 are in full swing. Our invitation from FB suggests something:
We invite you to a volunteer day in the garden in old Radlice.
We will clean up, but also build, help nature and have fun. We will also connect our colleagues from ČSOB with our neighbors from Radlice, Waltrovka and Malvaziny.
We want to continue pruning shrubs, returning plants appropriate for the location (forest-steppe) to nature, building more composters, building insect villages, and much more.
It is also a "fitness club" and an opportunity to move your body. Therefore, with supervision, you can also test out "sharp mowing". If you like it, we will organize such fitness clubs and ecological mowing regularly.
There will be even more, so sign up and come 🙂
Work shoes, clothes, gloves and rakes are welcome.
Meet at 9:00 by the tall poplar tree on the site of the former Frič farm (for the local Friček).
Volunteer Day for Biodiversity at ČSOB
Source: ČSOB
6/5/2023
We won't stop at the weekend either. Ondra brought material to make waste bins. The garden is asking for them and citizens are calling for them - not just dog walkers. The plan is to make the body of the bins and finish them on site
Preparation for volunteer day
Photo: O. Hercog (06/05/2023)
Preparation for volunteer day
Photo: O. Hercog (06/05/2023)
10/5/2023
To make matters worse, we're going to look for herbs again - this time with NHQ on our guard!
Herbs on the roof of NHQ
– lecture and harvest
Source: ČSOB
3/5/2023
The seminar took place on May 3rd on the roof of the bank and was again well attended.
In addition to an interesting talk, Michal also prepared demonstrations of unusual medicinal herbs. Then the employees had the opportunity to plant some types of herbs in boxes.
All planted boxes remained on the roof and are available to employees. We ended the seminar with a tasting of herbal tea and syrup.
As usual, Michal impressed everyone with his knowledge and enthusiasm for the topic. A group of people was also formed who would like to exchange the herbs they had grown with each other.
We are looking forward to seeing our herb garden grow nicely.
Paulina
PS. Michal was shy about showing off his herbal liqueurs, but maybe that will happen next year.”-
Behind the herbs on the roof of ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P Jirsová (3/05/2023)
Behind the herbs on the roof of ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P Jirsová (3/05/2023)
Behind the herbs on the roof of ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P Jirsová (3/05/2023)
Behind the herbs on the roof of ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P Jirsová (3/05/2023)
Behind the herbs on the roof of ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P Jirsová (3/05/2023)
Behind the herbs on the roof of ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P Jirsová (3/05/2023)
17/5/2023
Today was the spring volunteer day at the ČSOB Praha Radlická site
The volunteer day ended in success. The entire project team showed up, including the youngest member, little Mikuláš, and his mother Monika.
Our project manager Petra from Polička also arrived and brought delicious refreshments.
Unfortunately, Ondřej could not attend the volunteer day due to work reasons, but he did his part at home
. He prepared and brought us 2 new trash cans and the foundations of 4 insect houses, which our volunteers filled with suitable material (blades of grass, bricks and firewood with holes, etc.)
Together with the bank employees, we mowed a large piece of grassy meadow with scythes, filled the composters to bursting point, built another large composter in the upper part of the park, prepared and installed trash cans and insect houses, got rid of other overgrown branches and bushes. We also planted carnation seedlings, which we received from the HMP City Hall.
Not only bank employees came, but also neighbors from Farkáně, Waltrovka, and Malvaziny - isn't that great?
We all enjoyed the day very much.
We are all already looking forward to the autumn volunteer day, when we will work together again, but also have fun.
Paulina
There are lots of photos from the event, check them out HERE
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
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Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jirsová (17/5/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jílková (15/05/2023)
Volunteer Day ČSOB Praha Radlice
Photo: P. Jílková (15/05/2023)
4/6/2023
Ondra goes to check the hives. Because we were being bothered by ants, he puts PET bottle caps with Chemstop under the hive's legs.
The group of breeders from the bank, namely Paulína, Katka and Martin, take good care of them, it shows!
Ondra brought another scarecrow, which we finally managed to capture. The first mother from him disappeared and so we started from the beginning. As you can see, the queen arrived at the bank like a true lady.
Inspection
Photo: O. Hercog (4/06/2023)
Inspection
Photo: O. Hercog (4/06/2023)
Inspection
Photo: O. Hercog (4/06/2023)
7/6/2023
This year the weather is making us angry and unfortunately we are unable to catch up with the company that is supposed to mow the grass on the property. We have to escalate it because the grass has already grown too much.
But I am making us happy by sowing cocklebur. It is doing very well and is helping us to weaken the grass cover. Well…it is not visible now, but next year there should be a little less grass.
What's worse - in many places the grass is cut but not tidy = we call the company to fix it!
If grass is left on the ground as mulch, it will seed unnecessarily and will rot.
Bank garden
Photo: O. Hercog (7/06/2023)
Bank Garden – Cockerel Luštinec
Photo: O. Hercog (7/06/2023)
Bank garden
Photo: O. Hercog (7/06/2023)
Bank garden
Photo: O. Hercog (7/06/2023)
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Bank garden
Photo: O. Hercog (7/06/2023)
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11/6/2023
Unfortunately, we are unable to find a company to clean the grass. It starts to rot in warm and humid weather.
We don't just call SOS, but we get to work - we dig at least some places to save what we can....
In other places it is blooming and thriving. The cockscomb is gradually maturing, we are planning to harvest seeds for next year.
Bank garden - cleaning up rotting grass
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023
Bank garden - cleaning up rotting grass
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023
Bank Garden – Korhel luštinec
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023)
Bank Garden – Cockerel Luštinec
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023)
Bank garden - cleaning up rotting grass
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023
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Bank garden - cleaning up rotting grass
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023)
Bank garden - cleaning up rotting grass
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023)
Bank garden - cleaning up rotting grass
Photo: O. Hercog (11/06/2023
24/6/2023
The rhizome (Rhinanthus alectorolophus) is a really great plant. We are glad that Vojta got it last year and brought it to the plot. See how bumblebees and other insects like it. On YouTube Čmeláci PLUS you can find other bumblebee videos, now also from the bank's garden.
Did you know that cockroaches are semi-parasites?
12/6/2023
the Carthusian carnation (Dianthus carthusianorum) alive thanks to the watering.
We got it from the Magistráu and dropped it off at the volunteer day.
Common echium (Echium vulgare) also grows beautifully here. It is drought-tolerant and does not need our care, insects love it.
ČSOB Garden – Hvozdík kartouzek
Photo: O. Hercog (12/06/2023)
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ČSOB Garden – Common Hadinec
Photo: O. Hercog (12/06/2023)
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11/7/2023
Ondra goes to the bank's roof to check the nests.
Although it's very hot this year, the hives are fine. The bank team takes good care of the cooling of the hives and thanks to that, everything is fine.
Bumblebees PLUS – Hive inspection
Photo: O. Hercog (11/07/2023)
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Bumblebees PLUS – Hive inspection
Photo: O. Hercog (11/07/2023)
Bumblebees PLUS – Hive inspection
Photo: O. Hercog (11/07/2023)
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Bumblebees PLUS – Hive inspection
Photo: O. Hercog (11/07/2023)
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31/8/2023
The bank has started work on the playground for its kindergarten. We knew about the event, now we have the plans in our hands. So we'll see how it will look in reality.
Čmeláci PLUS – Playground of the ČSOB Kindergarten in Prague
Photo: ČSOB (31/08/2023)
29/9/2023
Today there was a visit to the property, literally 😀
We met there with our friends David Číp from Jaro Jaroměř and also with Dr. Jakub Straka from Charles University. We are planning to accelerate the logging of forest-steppe and forest in order to achieve the agreed goals more quickly.
We went through the places where we will work on insect villages, especially those on the clay slope. They need to be prepared in time for them to settle in the spring.
Our grass has grown back, so we're going to start mowing again to get everything ready for the fall volunteer day.
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
8/9/2023
Neighbors from Farkáně report that work has begun on the playground.
Michal is heading out to see what is going on there and, if necessary, make a health cut on the trees that would be affected. We want to save a few fruit trees - the witnesses of the gardening colony. There is a nice old apricot tree there, which we have a relationship with, so Vojtík is definitely the most important.
It's great that neighbors care about their neighborhood. And not only that, they help make this place nice too.
Playground of the ČSOB Praha Radlice Kindergarten
Photo: R. Petr (8/09/ 2023)
8/9/2023
Neighbors from Farkáně report that work has begun on the land. We are quite sorry that we could not participate in the preparation of the project. Unfortunately, we were not alone …
I'm happy for attentive neighbors. They are interested in what's happening in their neighborhood, but not just passively - they are not afraid to get involved in the work and help!
Playground of the ČSOB Praha Radlice Kindergarten
Photo: R. Petr (8/09/ 2023)
9/9/2023
Michal heads out to the property with a saw. The goal is to check which trees might be affected and make a health cut on them.
Vojta is worried about the old apricot tree. We have advice, he is a witness of the old times. Quite possibly even the time when there were large apricot orchards here after the war.
29/9/2023
Work on the playground is in full swing. Unfortunately, the earthworks have affected the parts where we planted interesting plants and where everything has come to life. The workers have spread the soil in places where we did not expect it.
Too bad, we will have to start again...
But we will use it in places where there is no grass, we will sow a mixture of seeds Prague Grass Mix. If grass were sown there, it would be more work. The goal of grass management is to reduce the grass so that something that helps nature grows on the land. The classic one means only mowing and cleaning, it does not do much good.
The property doesn't look very nice right now, but keep your fingers crossed that things will improve soon. Unfortunately, it will take a year or two..
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
Radlice garden renovation
Photo: O. Hercog (29/9/2023)
30/9/2023
We are all over the world (Prague, Polička, Mexico and Poland), but we are busy making plans for the Autumn Volunteer Day.
We definitely want to repeat the cider making, we liked it last year.
Petra has already secured PET bottles for cider, we are preparing hardware and other equipment. Ondra has already been activated by a neighbor from Farkáně, Martina and Alice are already preparing an invitation. We will not do an extra volunteer day for neighbors, but only a joint one.
Paulína is okay with the fact that Farkáň and Waltrov people can also participate. So keep your fingers crossed!
Autumn Volunteer Day at the ČSOB Gardens takes place on 18/10/2023
Here's a little reminder from the 2022 cider festival. You can find more on the 2022 blog HERE .
ČSOB Volunteer Day 7_10_2022 Prague Radlice – This precision ammunition will end up in the Czech Republic, but if needed, it will also be used in the East
13/10/2023
Last meeting before the autumn volunteer day.
Paulina and I went over the prepared plans and tasks. Everything is fine, the light is green.
Now all we have to do is let the sun shine. But we're thinking about that too and it's on our to-do list - Péťa took care of it!
Volunteer Day 18. 10. 2023
14/10/2023
Ondra goes out into the field and places flyers with an invitation and an event. People are interested – overalls and tools in hand really work!
PS. Did you know that Vojta “loves” signs in the field?
😀
Volunteer Day - trailer
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - trailer
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
18/10/2023
There is a volunteer day "Autumn 2023"! As we count, this is the 4th event of this kind that Paulína and I are organizing. How many people will come and what will the weather be like?
The first one was primarily taken care of by Paulína at the bank. Ondra spread the information on social networks But it is always difficult there, because on weekdays only employees can.
Ondra took a vacation, so we'll finally all be together - the whole gang on their toes.
We meet in advance at Frička's favorite summer oak tree. Ondra can't tell and keeps calling it "poplar" 😀 But we're used to it now and so I know where to meet..
We have plenty of materials and tools because Petra has completed her main tasks and has managed to get beautiful weather.
We had a little trouble finding a fruit crusher, but in the end, Péťa brought it all the way from Pardubice.
It's 9 o'clock here and we're starting!
Volunteer Day - work machine depot
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day – one more photo before the start and off we go!
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Paulína is coming with a bunch of bankers – there are a lot of them this time, so that's great. As we probed, the volunteer day is already known and so more and more interested people are signing up.
My colleague Jaromír Čížek also came, which was a nice surprise.
Ondra takes the opening speech. He briefly introduces everyone to the project. Then he introduces the plans for today and the leaders:
- Michal – arborist
- Vojta – sowing and harvesting
- Ondra – insect houses
- Petra – cleaning and cider making
There were many more tasks, we did not underestimate the preparation, or: "He who is prepared is not surprised"
We let everyone choose according to their interests, with the understanding that they could rotate. We almost got our neighbor, Mr. Pekar, involved. He stopped by while walking his dog and almost got caught up in the work.
Ondra and his team first started repairing the anthill netting and the trash can cover.
During the day, they worked on preparing the foundations for colonies of social bees (so-called solitary bees). They prepared clay slopes and a simple stone wall made from excavated material.
They also netted insect houses and covered them so that birds could not get into them and eat the recluses that winter there, and so that there would be no waterlogging. They used old trunks of dead trees. They drilled holes in them so that other recluses and insects could settle in them.
He also cleaned up the neglected corner behind the chapel and cut the bushes so that it was visible that there were no homeless people there.
Did you know that stag beetles are found here? They like the wood of old oaks, but that is also here, or its alternatives.
Volunteer Day - We are repairing the net to protect the anthill
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - We are also preparing insect houses for 2024
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - We also prepare places for insect colonies
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
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Volunteer Day - We are repairing insect houses so that birds cannot get in.
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - We are preparing the trunks of old trees so that insects can settle there
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
In addition to the good weather, Péťa took care of the good mood and energy. The morning before the event, she cooked, loaded and delivered the catering at home.
She and her team made 107 ciders. Everyone got something and so we had excellent cider from 100% organic apples from Zadní Kopanina.
Péťa is simply the good soul of the team and a ray of sunshine. It doesn't matter that he is from "abroad", that is, all the way from Polička.
Volunteer day - We are making wine!
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day – We are making cider!
Photo: P. Jílková (18/10/2023)
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Volunteer Day - Catering ala Polička
Photo: P. Jirsová (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - I'm working like crazy and need to replenish my energy
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - There is enough must
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
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Vojta and his team have started sowing seeds. Thanks to the work on the new playground for the Banka Kindergarten, some areas need to be restored and nurseries need to be established.
That's why they are digging, breaking up the turf and sowing seeds. The diversion team was given the task of creating islands of cockscomb.
Finally, they are cutting bushes and carrying wood to the forest 😀
Volunteer Day – Cut with a saw!
Photo: P. Jílková
(18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - Carrying wood to the forest in practice
Photo: P. Jirsová (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - There was no time for sunbathing, we are sowing, sowing and whoever is done will get another job 😀
Photo: P. Jirsová (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - Vojta commands "Clover seeds according to size here!"
Photo: P. Jirsová (18/10/2023)
Michal and his team worked hard too. They planted new fruit trees, pruned bushes and didn't stop all day. Paulína then ran between the bank and the orchard and watered the tree roots with her team. It was necessary because it was very dry. Petra wanted nice weather and she delivered. We didn't give her the task of having it rain the next day.
PS. But she gave it too and on Thursday it was like Medarada. The evil tongues say that we had a clique, We who know Péťa, but we know our own..
Volunteer Day - We plant new fruit trees
Photo: P. Jílková
(18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - We plant new fruit trees
Photo: P. Jirsová
(18/10/2023)
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Volunteer Day – So he won't take a saw in your hand, but the arborist is taken at his word...
Photo: P. Jílková
(18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - Composters are overflowing
Photo: P. Jílková
(18/10/2023)
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Our big mascot – little Miky, aka Santa Claus – couldn't miss the event. He was a bit bothered by a cold, but he didn't let it stop him and worked with us all day!
Photo: O. Hercog (18/10/2023)
We are already completely exhausted. Still, people are interested in the project, in the possibility of helping nature.
We are meeting to conclude Volunteer Day with ČSOB 2023 and invite everyone to our next events.
I think this one was a success and raised the bar again. Thank you to everyone, but especially to Paulína, without whom we wouldn't be here and wouldn't have experienced all of this. We appreciate the work done and the new friendships that were formed here.
THANK YOU!
Volunteer Day - Thank you at the end of the event
Photo: P. Jílková (18/10/2023)
Volunteer Day - Thank you at the end of the event
Photo: P. Jílková (18/10/2023)
HERE are photos from the event that didn't fit in the text - can you find yourself there?
If not, get involved and come to the Spring 2024 Volunteer Day!
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29/10/2023
We are working on preparing the cleaning of the VKP Lesostep on the bank's property. If it works out, it will be a small step for a person, but a giant leap for the project, so keep your fingers crossed!
Areas under the care of the project
Photo: M. Plundra (2023)
1/11/2023
November begins with great news – we will have tons of work to do until the end of the year, but in spring the forest-steppe will awaken to new life.
We'll tell you more soon!
15/11/2023
So it's confirmed!
We have been given the green light to clear the forest-steppe above the bank, see plot no. 1 in the previous picture – map. It is more than 1 ha of area, where invasive trees will be removed so that the forest-steppe can be gradually restored. We will also clear some parts of the forest to make it brighter. This will open up all areas and make them accessible.
It will be a lot of work, but we are looking forward to it.
You have already seen the following image here. This small area will now also connect with the neighboring islands and instead of shrubs there will be steppe grassland.
Tour of the Radlice forest-steppe – Will it be possible to get sheep here?
Photo: O. Hercog
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3/12/2023
The landscape has wrapped itself in a white blanket, but our project is not sleeping – quite the opposite!
Next week we are launching a big event - forest-steppe cleaning.
ČSOP JARO Jaroměř will carve out invasive trees on the slope on the bank. Isolated remnants of the forest-steppe will be connected into more continuous areas. Invasive trees will be removed, higher-quality trees will be preserved. The old apricot trees that remained from the original orchard will also be preserved.
We will open up some places where homeless people used to hide or where drug addicts used to gather. This will make the area safer for everyone who comes here for relaxation and nature.
We are already looking forward to seeing more butterflies that need the forest-steppe grasses to live. It won't be right away, but it will happen!
The cut material will be transported down to Frička, where it will be stored and chipped. The chipping will be carried out under the responsibility of the Center.
We will also illuminate part of the forest, remove some of the air raids and preserve quality trees. We will also remove some of the broken branches that threaten to fall on people passing by. The illuminated forest will return to a state where it was possible to go for walks and children could play here. There will also be places to sit in the shade, but with a view of Radlice.
Thanks to the fact that the work will be carried out by an experienced team from ČSOP and it will be an ecological project. It is not just about pruning. Here too, one must think and work sensitively and with regard to the given place and conditions. Michal will also be there together with JARO, who represents the role of an arborist architect.
Don't worry, it won't be a dramatic change, but a gradual one. In this stage, we will be in forest-steppe and forest for about 1.5 hours.
Everything is done with the consent of the Prague 5 Municipal District and the Prague City Hall
If you want to get involved, don't hesitate. Every year the bank organizes volunteer days for employees and citizens/neighbors. So you too can contribute to making this place beautiful and beneficial to both nature and people. Even if you don't get involved in the work, you too can protect the place from vandals and those who make a mess here.
We have prepared a simple information leaflet to let the public know what is happening here. They will certainly be interested and maybe even get involved.
We thank ČSOB as for making its land available to citizens and helping to develop biodiversity here!
Keep your fingers crossed that the work will be successful even in difficult climatic conditions.
Cloverleaf bluebird ( Polyommatus bellargus )
Photo: Pražská Pastvina
Melanargia galathea (Melanargia galathea)
Photo: A. Makara
Forest-steppe cleaning Prague Radlice 2023