This project was multi faceted. There were six main components: installing a dry laid Goshen Stone patio and walkway, installing perennial gardens, planting a heirloom fruit tree orchard, facing old concrete stairs with Goshen Stone, planting a native wildflower meadow and relocating and surfacing a 700 foot gravel driveway. The meadow was the dominate component to the landscape. Both the owner and Hilltown Tree & Garden agree that a traditional lawn was not appropriate for this area. The soil had been stripped off, compacted and graveled over. They had to aerate the soil and add over 100 yards of compost and topsoil. In the fall, six months before planting, they planted a cover crop of annual rye to hold the bare soil in place, add fertility with organic matter, to out-compete any winter annuals that may germinate and to act as a mulch for springtime seeding. In the spring, the soil was seeded and the photos you see were taken approximately 90 days after seeding. This seed mix was custom-blended to give four season interest, attract wildlife, and be self-sustaining. This meadow will morph over the first few years and then reach homeostasis.
Before: The parking area was right up in the front yard. It was bisecting the largest usable space on the property. It was suggested to the clients to move the parking area further from the house and use the space for an heirloom fruit tree orchard and a native tall grass and wildflower meadow.
After (90 Days Later): While the heirloom apple, peach and pear trees are barley visible in this photo it is impossible to miss the riot of colors from the wildflower meadow. This photo was taken 90 days after the meadow was installed. First to bloom are the black-eyed-susans and gaillardia while the longer term perennial and the tall grasses will come in later in the meadows life cycle.
Before: A different view of the house, barn and parking area.
After (90 Days Later): The wildflower meadow is in context with the clients personalities and the onsite structures.
Before: The entrance way to the cape style house was with concrete steps and a concrete pad walkway. It was neither inviting nor functional.
After (90 Days Later): The dry laid Goshen Stone patio/walkway is inviting and functional. The 225 square foot patio will allow the clients to barbecue and entertain when friend and family come over. The area is maintenance free and will provide pleasure for generations to come.
Before: The weedy patch to the right of the walkway was turned into a perennial garden.
After (90 Days Later): While little is in bloom, one can see the low maintenance drought tolerant perennials like: catmint, coneflower & false indigo.
The old concrete stairs were faced with cut Goshen Stone on a layer of mortar.
The client installed a new rustic fence that is quite fitting with the patio. Off in the distance, past the stepping stone walkway, the new parking area can be seen.
