Project 1: Forest Edge Garden
Project Overview:
After a major house renovation, the owners of a newly purchased property wanted a complete overhaul of the large yard surrounding their home.
Invasive weeds were threatening to take over the existing garden beds. The clients wanted environmentally sustainable landscaping solutions that would suit their gardening style.
Main Goals:
- Develop a separate pollinator garden and shade garden
- Enhance the view from the kitchen window
- Create a vibrant garden for cut flowers
- A quiet space to sit and enjoy the garden and view
- Increase privacy between neighbouring homes without building fences.
Main Challenges:
- Invasive weeds were threatening to overtake the garden
- The steep grade of the pollinator area by the kitchen
- The property had a shaded section with large trees between houses
- Dog-friendly area
Client Vision & Goals:
The client, an experienced gardener, wanted help with the design and foundational structure of the garden, along with the flexibility to add her own personal touches over time. Her vision included a beautiful cut flower garden, a separate pollinator garden with views from the kitchen, a separate shade garden and a green privacy barrier.
Landscaper’s Approach:
Our landscaper designed a flexible, multi-year project which allowed the client to work with the landscaper to gradually implement the plan and contribute to the garden’s evolution.
Key Strategies Included:
- Removing invasive weeds by scraping the hillside clean and rebuilding the soil from scratch
- Designing pathways and placing large rocks to define the various garden beds
- Installing a “green fence” – a low-maintenance mix of trees, shrubs, and ground cover with irrigation to provide privacy without a hard barrier.
- Stabilising steep bank using rock
- Creating a small flat area for dogs to play
- Using sustainable weed barriers while plants grow and fill in beds
Project Outcome:
Over three years, the landscaper worked with the client, guiding the installation of major elements like rocks and pathways, while leaving room for her to add details. The “green fence” provides privacy, and the client enjoys a manageable, beautiful garden. Now free from the labor-intensive tasks, she can garden in a way that suits her lifestyle.
