grow and learn: outdoor library spaces - texas · site preparation clear area of debris, weeds,...
TRANSCRIPT
Landscape
In The Beginning
Site Preparation
Clear area of debris, weeds, unnecessary plants
Sculpt the topography & adjust the drainage
Solarize soil
Add weed block: Mulch - Newspaper/Cardboard - Fabric
Provide protection: Fencing ~ Gates
Add architectural features: Boulders ~ Dry stream bed
Site Design Flower Bed Design: Size ~ Access ~Line of sight~
Visual appeal
Pathways: Width ~ Perimeter definition ~ Line of sight
Benches & Seats: Comfort ~ Access
Arbors & Supports: Strength ~ Longevity
Water Availability: Catchments ~ Spigots ~ Buckets
Features: Signage ~ Art work
Function: How is the space to be used
Plant Selection
Moisture & Sunlight Requirements
Height
Color of Flowers, Seeds and Leaves
Texture
Bloom Time
Growth Rate
Native vs Adapted
Existing Plants & Volunteers
Plant Installation
Size: Smaller is usually better ~ Walk-ons welcome
Soil Preparation: Native = Minimal prep
Mulch & Pond: 2” to 3” Mulch ~ Pond for easy watering
Maintenance: First year has more stringent requirements
Monitor for water & heat stress
Markers & Tags: Plant identification is essential
And Don’t Forget the Butterflies
In All Stages:
Egg~Larvae ~ Pupa ~Adult Butterfly
Essentials:
Food: Nectar - Leaves
Water: Puddling opportunities
Shelter: Bark ~ Grasses ~
Structural devices
Maintenance
Cannot Be Avoided
Includes both Livescape and Hardscape
Scheduled: Seasonal ~ Continual
Minimize Chemical Usage: Fertilizers & Pesticides
Trails
Play Area
Observatory
Building Partnerships and Relationships Master Naturalists
Master Gardeners
Native Plant Society of Texas
Astronomy Club of New Braunfels
Garden Clubs
Artisans
Businesses
Scouts
Schools
Individuals (Donors)
Get others involved
Programs
Best Practices for Gardening
Native Plants
Low-water use
Limited use of chemical pesticides
Questions ???
Susan Herr
Bulverde Spring Branch Library
Roxanna Deane
Tye Preston Memorial Library
http://tpml.org/butterfly-garden