The Woodland Garden
Shaded sites provide their own challenges. At this site in Carnation I encountered the double whammy that is so prevalent here in this region of the country: shaded areas that are also dry, especially in the summer when precipitation stops. This most recent and large landscape renovation offered dry shade, partial sun, and full sun. Nowhere is there excessive moisture on this lot and that is a miracle in itself.

The triangularly-shaped property is nestled at the base of major water run-off from springs and snow melt. Not only are there French drains surrounding the lot, but two large drain fields were engineered to help with run-off and accommodate the septic system. These drain fields could not be disturbed. Any heavy equipment brought in had to traverse a specially-built track to disperse the weight of the machines so the pipes would not be damaged.

The clients wanted to make their gravel pathway more solid. By installing stone pathways made of Silver Strike and Gold Rush Quartzite, we made them brighter, too. Light reflecting off the stone shines clear and white, even on cloudy days. The new circular greenhouse pad and stairs are also made of Silver Strike.

Lastly, they wanted the landscape pulled together. The previous owner had created a space filled with plants purchased from box stores and had had little guidance regarding planting. Some had died or not grown. Since mostly evergreen plants were chosen, the landscape offered only variation in shapes or limited texture. Other than green, color was absent except for the small Japanese Maples.

New soil was blown in and to reduce costs, we salvaged many of the existing healthy shrubs and trees and relocated them. Three Japanese Maples were relocated and all are doing well. After this was completed, we added bulbs, perennials and additional shrubs and small trees for four-season interest. After planting, bark mulch was blown in to reduce weeds.

To add definition, DTEGI designed arbors for climbing vines. The homeowner built them from pressure treated lumber and strung them with copper wire in a fan configuration. Finally, to help hide the essential but ordinary fence, we encouraged tall trellising to be built. The trellising patterns will vary slightly and will define areas with their own character and mood.

So far, the stone pathways, greenhouse pad, stairs and a low retaining wall near the old fir stumps are all installed. The soil is in and the garden has been planted. The lawn was tilled, seeded and is growing; it even has clover and a visiting mole! The arbors are newly-finished and the greenhouse is going up. Only the trellises need to be completed and when they are, we'll post the final pictures.

View Past Projects
Craftsman Renovation
No Grass!
Boggy Garden
Modern Garden
The Rockery
Cottage Garden
Roof Garden
Native Mix Garden