Project team

Head: Forever Flowers, Herbs, and More

Partners: Lift As We Climb

Project description and goals

A flower and herb garden is proposed. The flowers—after initial blossoming—will be multiplied, providing for landscaping resources to be used throughout the neighborhood. The herbs will be used for both culinary and healing purposes, with the goal of both bodily and spiritual health.  Supplementing the plantings will be the development of a place of tranquility, offering access to the community members an oasis in the middle of the inner-city. Given that the project leader is a Master Gardener, educational opportunities for the remaining group members will be an additional goal as well.

Existing conditions

The Hough-Wade Park site consists of two vacant lots (107-16-064 and 107-16-065) measuring 7,405 sq. ft. The lot—along Blaine Ave.—was chosen for its central location in the neighborhood, as well as its proximal location to a number of the volunteers. Too, the vacant lot has much potential, as existing trees cut the lot into a workable area as far as place-making is concerned.

Proposed interventions

After soil testing and tilling, Raised beds will be created on site, with the addition of wildflower and perennial plantings to follow.  Herb gardens will also be planted, providing for educational opportunities within the neighborhood on the varied benefits of herbal therapies.  Place-making will be centered on existing trees. Specifically, the large mature tree on the corner of the lot will surrounded with circumferenced bench seating. Also, signage will be installed near a gated entrance, with climbing plants and other features designed to emphasize “welcome in” as opposed to “keep out”. Paths along the site will be developed as well, consisting of wood-chipped walkways intermingled with stepping stones. 

Site maintenance

Seasonal duties will be outlined. For instance, Spring duties involve clean-up and plantings; Summer is maintenance and harvesting; Fall is “putting the garden to bed”, with leaves and plant residue given to composting; and Winter involves planning.  For scheduling, a calendar will be developed showing time-slotted duties, and meeting/planning dates will be either on-site or at a central location. Watering will be provided by having a water line run on-site.