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I am a garden designer specializing in sustainable gardening methods
using the natural processes in the life of a garden as a resource.
This kind of gardening is fast becoming part of a new wave of
thinking and action around the world, arising from our collective
concern regarding our impact on the earth.
Ecological gardening methods include:
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use of low maintenance, disease resistant and hardy plants
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plants installed properly and well maintained
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plants site specific (the right plant in the right place)
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soil amended naturally with organic compost and mulches
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plants that attract wildlife and natural predators (no pesticides)
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diversity of plants and eco-grouping (similar requirements)
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hardscape that is low impact and more natural
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The good news is that it
works! Nature is wonderfully restorative and the gardening practices that
I recommend are actually easier, less work, less money and more rewarding.
A garden that is a harmonious ecosystem
is a magical place, full of activity from the ground up: the soil is alive
with millions of beneficial microorganisms. |
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All
kinds of wildlife will find a home in a yard with a good choice of
diverse plants and free of toxic chemicals. The gardener becomes the
steward of a thriving environment that is a haven for all to enjoy.
My palette is a mix of rich, textured foliage with all season
interest and accents. My aesthetic is a combination of English
cottage garden, Japanese, Garry oak native, urban contemporary and
Mediterranean outdoor living styles. All of these elements are used
to create a garden that suits both the client and the setting.
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I am trained in Ecological Garden Design from Gaia College (www.gaiacollege.ca),
and I have a Fine Arts Degree (Visual Arts
Honours,
University of Victoria, 1983).
I am not a landscape architect. My interest, skills and training are
in suitable plant choices, sustainable gardening practices and design
for optimal function and enjoyment. References available on request.
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Fees
I have set up a flexible fee schedule to suit the needs of the
client.
For the committed gardener needing specific input regarding, for
example, ecological gardening methods, plant choices or aesthetic
input with design issues, a consultation may be sufficient. Perhaps
new ideas are needed. Consultations are useful as well for new
homeowners or those thinking of selling in the near future. I can
assist in creating new gardens and in renovating and rejuvenating
older ones: completely, partially or in stages.
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A two-hour interactive consultation in your garden during which
you can take notes or even make a recording. Plants and best
practices will be recommended. Have your questions and concerns
ready.
May include rough
sketches. $100 (Outside of Greater Victoria—a travel surcharge may apply)
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A hand drafted garden plan to scale (may include interview, site
plan, functional use plan, concept drawings, researched plant lists,
detail drawings, installation and maintenance plan). This is an
extensive process for people wanting a permanent plan for reference.
It is recommended for people hiring professional installers. A
contract will be issued. The minimum cost is $300. $40/hour charges apply for additional time spent, depending on how
many plans are required, the extent of the project and whether
installation supervision is needed.
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I have been a member of the VHS (Victoria Horticultural Society) for
over 15 years and am a long-time member of Glendale Gardens (formerly
the Horticultural Center of the Pacific), having taken courses there
as well. I live in Fernwood, where I have raised a family and gardened in my
yard for over 20 years. For the last 3 years, I have provided our
monthly neighbourhood newspaper (The Village Vibe) with a gardening
column covering the many aspects of organic gardening. |
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