Gazing upon this bust, one might wonder about the man it immortalizes. This is the Christian Reichart Bust, a tribute to a man who significantly shaped Erfurt’s horticultural landscape. Christian Reichart, born in Erfurt on July 4, 1685, was more than just a councilman. He is considered the founder of commercial gardening in Germany. His influence on Erfurt, the “Flower City,” is immeasurable.
The Christian Reichart Bust stands as a testament to his innovative spirit. Reichart studied law at the University of Erfurt, but his true passion lay in agriculture and horticulture. He inherited his family’s lands in 1720 and began experimenting. His meticulous documentation of his work and his stepfather’s knowledge led to his first book on agriculture and horticulture. Reichart’s dedication to improving gardening practices propelled Erfurt to the forefront of the industry. He introduced intensive vegetable cultivation to the city. He even acclimated cauliflower seeds from Cyprus, laying the foundation for Erfurt’s renowned cauliflower cultivation.
Christian Reichart was a true pioneer. He developed tools like the single-wheel hoe, a transplanting machine, and a spiked roller for soil aeration, innovations that boosted productivity. He also established watercress beds in the Dreienbrunnen area. This vitamin-rich vegetable thrived in water and provided a welcome addition to winter diets. Reichart’s innovations extended beyond Erfurt, shaping the entire German horticultural landscape. His six-volume work “Land- und Gartenschatz,” published in 1753, cemented his place as a leading authority in the field. He also served as a councilman, advocating for science-based gardening education.
This bust is not the first tribute to Reichart. A sandstone statue was erected in his honor in 1867 on what was then Reichartplatz (now Karl-Marx-Platz). However, it was later moved to Pförtchenanlagen to make way for a Kaiser Wilhelm monument. This bronze bust, created in 1985 by Kerstin Stöckel, offers a more intimate portrait. It captures Reichart’s energy and hints at his playful sense of humor. This bust, located at the Fachhochschule Erfurt, reminds us of Reichart’s lasting contributions to Erfurt’s horticultural heritage. His legacy lives on, blooming in the vibrant gardens and parks that make Erfurt the Flower City.