“Green, oh green are all my tracks…” — one could sing in a playful variation of a children’s song. At Stuttgarter Straßenbahnen AG (SSB), not all tracks are green yet, but the green network continues to grow steadily. For many years, SSB has been an active member of the Grüngleisnetzwerk, and for the past seven years, the IASP has been supporting the expansion of Stuttgart’s green rail network with extensive expertise, analyses, and consulting.

This year, we launched a comprehensive two-year model experiment at our test station in Berge (Havelland). The aim is to identify the optimal substrate for the planned U13 extension, under conditions that simulate Stuttgart’s specific precipitation patterns. Currently, our focus was once again on conducting the regular botanical assessment of several already vegetated green track sections in Stuttgart. Plant assessment involves key observations and analyses of plant characteristics — for example, measuring growth height, leaf count, or counting insects. Such monitoring enables the evaluation of damage or nutrient deficiencies in plants, which in turn informs protective and maintenance measures, such as the application of specific fertilizers.

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