Terrae 2024: Orticolario’s Green Vision on Lake Como
From October 3 to 6, 2024, Villa Erba in Cernobbio, on the shores of Lake Como, hosted the 14th edition of Orticolario.
This edition focused on soil as an essential element of life and the importance of plants in environmental purification.
With the theme “Terrae”, the event aimed to raise awareness about soil conservation and the natural world’s ability to repair environmental damage caused by human activities.
Moreover, Orticolario highlighted the importance of protecting natural resources while encouraging a more sustainable relationship with the environment.
Soil: A Source of Life and an Unexplored Mystery
Although soil provides nourishment and supports life for plants, animals and humans, many of its mysteries remain unexplored.
For this reason, Orticolario 2024 emphasised the urgent need to respect and protect this essential resource.
Throughout history, ancient civilisations considered the earth sacred and worshipped deities associated with fertility and abundance.
For example, the Greeks honoured Demeter, while the Romans worshipped Ceres. Similarly, Andean cultures revered Pachamama, a symbol of the earth and its life-giving power.
These traditions demonstrate how deeply the relationship between humanity and soil is rooted in different cultures.
An Ancient Technology for a Sustainable Future: Phytoremediation
Phytoremediation was one of the central themes of Orticolario 2024.
This natural process uses specific plant species to capture, break down and remove pollutants from soil and water.
In particular, plants such as cabbage, turnips, sunflowers, corn, willows and hemp can contribute to environmental purification.
Working together with soil microorganisms, these plants help reduce harmful substances and improve environmental conditions.
As a result, phytoremediation represents a valuable approach to restoring contaminated environments.
Furthermore, this process highlights the extraordinary ability of the plant world to support ecological balance.
Innovations and Highlights of Orticolario 2024
The 2024 edition introduced new opportunities for participation through an open call for architects, artists, designers, performers and exhibitors.
At the same time, Orticolario presented a redesigned website, offering visitors a more intuitive and engaging browsing experience.
Approximately 250 exhibitors were selected to showcase rare, unusual and collectible plants, alongside artistic craftsmanship and design.
In addition, the event featured themed gardens and creative installations inspired by the year’s central theme.
The Spazi Creativi International Competition also played an important role, bringing together innovative projects that combined nature, art and landscape design.
Through these initiatives, Orticolario continued to connect tradition with innovation, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.
A Shared Commitment to the Future
Moritz Mantero, president of Orticolario, highlighted the importance of raising awareness about soil conservation, especially among younger generations.
According to Mantero, protecting the earth requires greater respect for nature and a deeper understanding of its essential role.
The event also encouraged reflection on the natural world’s ability to recover from damage caused by human activities.
Beyond environmental education, Orticolario 2024 supported fundraising initiatives through the Amici di Orticolario Fund.
Contributions collected during the four-day event and throughout the year helped support projects promoting landscape culture.
Furthermore, the fund provided assistance to five local charitable organisations working in the Lake Como area.
In this way, Orticolario combined environmental awareness with concrete support for the local community.
A Journey into the Earth of Tomorrow
Orticolario 2024 was more than an event for gardening and nature enthusiasts. Above all, it invited visitors to reflect on their relationship with the planet.
Protecting the environment and recognising the value of natural resources were central messages throughout the event.
By celebrating soil in its many forms, Orticolario created a meeting point between innovation, tradition and sustainability.
Visitors could discover new ideas, explore creative projects and find inspiration for a greener future.
Ultimately, the event celebrated the beauty and vitality of our planet while encouraging everyone to contribute to its protection.
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