Amsterdammers left bemused at plan to tackle flowerpot ‘jungle’

Flowerpots outside a house in Amsterdam. The central city chief said ‘neglected pots were unattractive’. Photograph: Judith Jockel/The Guardian

Residents have reacted with bemusement at plans by authorities in Amsterdam to crack down on what it sees as a plague of messy plant pots.

In an approach named “Operation plant pot” by the local media, the Dutch capital’s central district is limiting residents to two pots with footprints no larger than 50cm by 50cm, made of “sustainable” material and placed against their front wall. Rogue gardens of pots in parking spots and under trees will be confiscated, according to the policy memo.