Model school garden of the Faculty of Education, Masaryk University

The Kejbaly model school garden is located near the Masaryk University campus and is part of the Department of Biology at the Faculty of Education, which is located in the city centre of Brno. 

The garden’s current design is based on the concept of climate-adapted natural gardens. In addition to traditional practices like cultivating mixed-use beds (polycultures) and permaculture features (e.g., a herb spiral), the garden emphasizes biodiversity. Since summer 2023, it has been certified as a Demonstration Natural Garden. The main principles of natural gardening include banning pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and peat while utilizing various biological methods to promote sustainability and species diversity. These include elements such as two ponds, insect hotels, bird feeders, reptile shelters, lizard houses, and “wild” areas of the garden. The garden also employs various irrigation systems, including ceramic OLLA pots. All garden waste is processed through composting, chipping, or biochar production. The garden is undergoing a gradual transformation, adapting to changing climate conditions and evolving uses of school gardens. 

The garden hosts regular and special classes for Faculty of Education students, focusing on science education in the context of school gardens (garden-based learning). Students gain practical experience with hands-on and experiential learning principles, addressing topics like environmental awareness, identifying living organisms, cultivating crops, nature conservation, and sustainability practices at the individual and community levels. Activities also include floral arrangements and floristics. The garden often welcomes students from nearby primary schools, where student teachers lead workshops as part of their practicum. For members of the academic community, the garden serves as a space for informal gatherings. 

Tours and thematic workshops can be arranged in both Czech and English. The garden is fully wheelchair accessible, although movement is primarily on unpaved grassy areas.