Boketorp – an important part of Hovdala

Next to a newly established nature reserve lies a house that got its name when the boketorp farmer Axel Nilsson moved there in 1914 – Boketorp. With Hovdala Castle as a neighbor, the place is both well-visited and significant.

As part of the former craft village ”Broslätt,” Boketorp plays an important role both in the history of Hovdala Castle and in the cultural environment surrounding the castle.

The aim of the project was to both restore and thereby save Boketorp but also to make the place accessible by offering services, activities, and various forms of operations. It was about creating a creative and beautiful meeting place where some of the guiding principles were knowledge, hiking, inclusion, and sustainability.

The Boketorp house has been renovated and equipped in such a way that it can be used by both completely external actors and by project partners, operations in the municipality, and private individuals. During the project period, three exhibitions were shown for visitors, and during the summer seasons, guided themed hikes and theme days took place. Course activities have been held at the house, such as craft courses and beekeeping courses as well as study circles.

In addition to this, educational material was developed. There is material related to nature and cultural environments that can both be combined and adjusted according to the needs and wishes of teachers and students.

The gardener Annika Ahlbin has worked with the nature around Boketorp, among other things by creating flower beds, plantings, and inspiration areas related to biodiversity. Highlighting biodiversity and helping to preserve it has been a common thread throughout the project.

Boketorp has received a significant boost and is an increasingly important part of Hovdala Castle and the fantastic natural landscape that surrounds the castle. Through the project, the house and its garden as well as the surrounding outdoor environment have been significantly improved, which has led to a clear increase in both visitors and passersby.

Virtually all plants at Boketorp are chosen based on their usefulness to insects and animals in one or more ways. Nettles are allowed to grow freely in certain areas because they are host plants for many butterflies.

Boketorp is accessible for various forms of operations and activities. For project manager Therese Almqvist, the work with Boketorp has meant a lot, from start to finish. It was a fantastic opportunity to be involved in creating something new at Hovdala Castle, and moreover, something that connects the surrounding environment with the castle and nature.

"This is something that so many will really benefit from," says Therese.