In 2009, a multi-year garden renewal project was begun in the 90 foot long rock garden. The thoughtful and careful work was performed by Parks and Recreation Department personnel and Washington Master Gardener volunteers. Here is a shot of the rock garden before work began.
The first step was the hard work of clearing out overgrown plantings. During the initial phase, overgrown trees, shrubs and perennials were removed, irrigation zones were analyzed, rocks were repositioned and soil was amended. The amount of sun and shade along the long slope was carefully noted.
This cleared area is located at the front edge of the garden along the path and near a seating area.
It will become the Lewisia section.
Prior to replanting, the poor soil was amended with organic and non-organic soil amendments.
The first planting of the new Lewisia section was made in 2009.
A second planting was made to the Lewisia section in 2010. Note the addition of grit topdress to the garden.
The same section is seen here in the summer 2011 and is one of the highlights of the garden. Lewisia plants flower nearly all year and is a favorite of volunteers and visitors. The addition of permanent labels put the finishing touches on this renewed public garden.
Many thanks to Washington County Master Gardener Skip Frankwick who provided the above photographs and is a part of the team of hard workers who made the renewal of this public garden a reality.
Wild Ginger Farm
