tuIn

Tuin is the Dutch word for garden. In general usage, a tuin denotes a cultivated outdoor space associated with a dwelling or estate, used for growing plants, producing food, and providing a place for relaxation. The concept covers a wide range of forms, from small kitchen gardens and herb borders to large ornamental parks and public gardens. Common elements include planting beds, lawns, paths, trees, shrubs, borders, and often water features or seating areas. Management typically involves soil preparation, planting, weeding, pruning, watering, and pest control, adapted to local climate and soil conditions.

Historically, gardens reflect social and environmental ideas. In Europe, garden design evolved from formal Renaissance and Baroque schemes to English landscape gardens and modern minimalist layouts. In the Dutch-speaking world, tuinen have long been tied to horticulture, bulb cultivation, and urban greening; many towns host allotment gardens and community plots.

Environmental considerations have increased attention to biodiversity and sustainability. Contemporary practice often emphasizes soil health, water efficiency, and native plantings. Approaches include composting, mulching, rainwater harvesting, and integrated pest management. The term is used in compound forms such as tuinaanleg (garden design) and tuinieren (gardening).