The Sichtungsgarten — literally "sighting garden" or trial garden — is a perennial display and testing ground maintained by Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences. It covers about 1.5 hectares on the western slopes of the Weihenstephan hill and contains one of the most comprehensive collections of ornamental perennials in central Europe, with over 2,500 species and varieties assessed for performance in Bavarian conditions.
The garden is at its best in late spring and early summer when the meadow-style plantings are in full bloom, but there is colour from April through October. It is a working research garden rather than a showpiece, which means the labelling is meticulous and the planting schemes reflect current horticultural research rather than historical fashion. Admission is modest and the garden is easy to combine with a visit to the nearby brewery. A good map at the entrance helps navigate the large grid of trial beds.