THE NATURE OF PLANTS

photo 1 Carex hachioensis 'evergold' terrific shade tolert grass
photo 2 Hosta 'stained glass'
photo 3 Chrysogonum tight mound 6” yellow single flowers

What is that elusive quality of plants than has the ability to calm, relax and excite us. I terrific plant has the ability to slow us down, make us stop and well, smell the roses, right?

On the scientific side plants actually clean our air, reduce heat in summer and break cold winds in the winter. Therapeutic, beautiful and practical, now that sounds like a good idea for everyone!

Check out some of the plants we are considering for the garden. The concept is variations on foliage interest and flowering varieties sprinkled throughout. Since the garden is primarily shady, our plant considerations reflect this condition.


photo 1 Brunnera 'looking glass'

photo 2 Athyrium niponicum pictum (Japenese painted fern)


photo 1 Astilbe 'bridal veil'

photo 2 Houstonia caerulea (bluets) native 3”-6” tall blue flowers

Shrubs for the garden

photo 1 Hydrangea quercifolia (oakleaf hydrangea)

photo 2 Rhododendron Chinoides

CLEARING DAY

Yesterday we starting the installation process by clearing the garden area. Remove Brush, weeds and debris. The swirling garden paths have been marked out and we are ready for the pathways.

Thanks to George Monaco owner of G.M. Landscape in Mahopac for doing the work. His crew worked for hours clearing, cutting, raking and the site looks really great. Thanks George!

George with his son Antonio

Garden area cleared, ready for the pea gravel pathways to be installed.

This garden is a beautiful plan for the whole PARC community. It is small and perfect. Michael has opened the door for this project to become real. Thank you deeply.

Concept Goals Dreams

Project labyrinth grew out of simple idea and evolved into drawing below.
A labyrinth is designed to be a spiritual experience, with only one way in and the reverse is the only way out. This garden walk is about the journey and designed to slow the visitor down and enjoy the texture of the garden your path.

The entrance is designed to merge eastern ideas with our Hudson Valley natural elements. We used eastern cedar with the bark on to create a entrance gate and bridge. The bridge will have a gentle ramp so it is can be accessed by all. Woodland shrubs will shroud the view into the garden leaving only the view through the main gate. Once inside, it will feel like another place.

The garden had been planned as completely organic and plant materials are being selected based on xeriscape principles. Benches and stools are being designed from reclaimed wood pilings from a local construction site.

A hanging display behind a set of stools is planned. The drawing below represents a large Gong planned from recycled materials. Hanging deep sounding bells and a hanging garden scrim concept is also being developed. We are considering a changing idea for this area so we can engage the PARC children and Adults.