cechead

BayScape Garden

Summer 2003, Bayscape Garden

Before the Bayscape was planted, this was an unattractive area consisting of several non-native shrubs and weedy turf grass. The shrubs were removed from the area with a bobcat; while the weeds and turf grass were removed with a sod cutter. Several volunteers helped roll and load the turf on trucks for removal. The area was then rototilled, raked and leveled. A few days later, the Bayscape (also known as a conservation landscape or environmentally friendly landscape) was planted.
The Bayscape, located at the entrance to Adams Academy Middle School, represents what one might do in his or her own front or backyard as an alternative to turf grass. In the center of the Bayscape is a mulched path that leads to a small area with flat paving stones set in mulch, with a glider bench, on which signage is placed. On either side of the path, there are blue sedges (which are evergreen) and purple lovegrass, both of which reach a height of about 12 to 18 inches. This turf grass alternative only needs to be cut once a year; however, it is not designed for heavy foot traffic. The entrance to the school is lined with flower beds that attract and feed native butterflies and bees, and feed and shelter songbirds.
Zora Lathan designed the garden, with the assistance of Sara Tangren. John Flood assisted CEC staff with site preparation. Numerous volunteers and Adams Academy students planted the Bayscape.
Pictures:
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