Drawings- See journal Site Description
Size: Approximately 30 ft deep by 40 ft wide
Shape: Rectangular
Topography: Flat
Slope: Little to no slope
Exposure: approximately 5 hours of sunlight at this time of year (February)
Soil Characteristics:
Texture: Sandy and somewhat rocky
Color: Medium brown
Consistency: Loose
Drainage: Good
Water Features: None
Principal Plant Species: Grass and the occasional weed though none are apparent at this time
Evidence of Animal Activity: Some squirrels and the neighbor’s cat like to frequent the area
The Story of the Site: This area used to contain many evergreen trees but the people who lived here before us took them down about 7 years ago to make space for a vegetable garden.
My Feelings about the Site: I have been quite frustrated trying to figure out what I want to do with this area and finally I have come to a decision that makes me quite happy. By planting fruit trees in this area, I will receive some privacy through their leaves and branches but also I will be able to grow delicious fruit.
Preliminary Design and Plan
- Specific Plant Species:
Honeycrisp apple Malus domestica
Chehalis apple Malus domestica
Imperial Epineuse plum Prunus domestica
Kuban Delight plum Prunus domestica
3x1 Shinse/Ham/Misha/Yoin Asian pear Pyrus Serotina
3 Rhodendrons Rhododendron macrophyllum
- Design:
The rhododendrons will be planted at the most eastern part of the property bordering the main road. The fruit trees will be spaced evenly throughout the rest of the property specified
- Sequence of Activities:
I will buy the rhododendrons when they are in bloom so that to make sure that I get the colors I most enjoy. I figure this to be anytime from April to May. I will then immediately plant them. I will probably buy the fruit trees in the middle of March and will also plant them immediately after purchasing.
Materials and Tools: To plant these I will need shovels, compost and or manure, water, and probably another person
- Compost:
I have two compost bins on my property.
- Watering System:
I have a faucet on the front of my house. I also have a long hose and many sprinklers.