1965-1970
Beginnings – a residential district with atrium houses called “Murgle” was formed in the Southern quarter of Ljubljana close to the historical centre bordering periphery and suburban nature. The settlement was created around a few green alleys with mature trees of different species close to the renowned Second World War circular memory path around Ljubljana and was opened towards marshes called “Ljubljansko barje” in the South. Plot and building owners started with cultivation and additional planting. Thus, the district started giving a sentiment of spacious park with lush vegetation offering opportunities for pleasant strolls into the nature beauties of the regional park “Ljubljansko barje
1971-1977
The Eco-Oasis lot got final outer fencing and auxiliary garden shed for tools and garden maintenance, which enabled more dedicated gardening and first changes of previously rather conventional design. First garden sketches and planting schemes were drawn. Trees and shrubs were planted systematically according to the dedicated design. The Slovenian Surveying & Mapping Authority obtained incontestable proof of plot ownership, which served as the basis for garden planning and management.
1978-1985
First dedicated works formed conceptual garden with rock garden, charming peripheral planting of trees and shrubs in different levels and plain central space for garden social activities. Circular picturesque pathway for visitors was created. Sustainability and “permaculture” principles were introduced.
1986-1990
Formation of the specific shape of garden with visual axes and unique planting of miniature cultivars and ornamental plants continued with dedicated works, selection of plant cultivars and carefully planned planting. Herbarium and plant photo archive were established. Double rounded shaped garden pond was introduced with two islands and oriental T-shaped Bridge connecting the bigger one to the main circular pathway.
1991-1993
The first drawings of the garden, raised beds and details were made (see Pdf). Raised beds with low pebble-stone walls were created according to the plans (see photos). Also, the underground cables were laid for illumination and foreseen water circulation. Experiments with microclimate ecological adaptations of plants from different climatic conditions started. First typical Mediterranean plants were introduced and their existence during winter facilitated. Plants from different continents and growing conditions were gradually introduced. The name Eco-Oasis was given to the mini arboretum that was gradually taking shape. Also, covered plexi-glass resting places were designed and installed.
1994-1999
The raised bed front garden was formed near the entrance with low cascading brick walls and lush planting. The soil excavated for garden pond in the main garden area was used for filling the raised beds. Also, cascading waterfall feature with circulating water flow as well as the oriental stone lanterns were introduced.
2000
Activities started for the recognition of the broader social and urban-natural value of the Eco-Oasis as a heritage, designed piece of nature, and plant collection and conservation site within the city of Ljubljana.
2000-2001
The design skeches, drawings and plans (see also Main Documents – Pdf-s) were made for winter garden and the “Four Seasons” conservatory was chosen. Planting scheme for tropical and desert plants was made and plants for the conservatory were systematically gathered and nursed.
2001
Documents of recognition from the Mayor of the City of Ljubljana (Pdf) and the most important institutions in the field in Slovenia were obtained – University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Dept. of Landscape Architecture, Arboretum Volčji Potok, Botanical Garden of Ljubljana, see Pdf-s). Also, the Eco-Oasis featured in the poster “Slovenia Green Treasure of Europe” included in the 15.000 copies of CDs representing strengths & potentials of Slovenia for the international cooperation.
2002-2004
Foundations and parapets for the planned inner raised plant beds and undulating rocky walls in the conservatory were completed. Also, the garden planting was completed with additional plants. Experiments with microclimate ecological adaptations of plants from different climatic conditions continued. The growing sites for Mediterranean plants were adapted for better growth. Introduction of plants from different continents and growing conditions was continued.
2004-2005
Designs were made for the additional garden illumination. Special luminatories as a part of unconventional garden design were made and installed.
2005-2006
The roof of the building was renovated and preparation works for the completion of conservatory were continued. The works on the entry part with marble paving and pillars, facade, illumination and introduction of monitoring cameras were finalized according to the design.
2007-2010
The winter garden was finished according to plan and its interior carefully planed for the caretake of all plants.