Hello Parents and Staff of the sweet kids who attend Ecole Pauline Johnson :
It’s been a privilege to collaborate with your fearless leader, Kyra Smiljanic, on the finishing touches for the learning and community gardening area. I was invited by Benjamen Lumb, talented stone mason and artist. And I’m so glad he asked me. The garden I’ve designed provides a classic pacific northwest approach with emphasis on low maintenance, waterwise, and native plant choices - ferns, ornamental grasses, conifers, and foliage plantings. This will give you a solid basis from which to build over the years.
The day I came to source and place the design in situ was a beautiful fall day. The kids were let out around recess and were playing nearby as I worked. I observed how they run and enjoy the space that has been conserved and protected for their enjoyment. I listened in on the outdoor teacher’s class on the fall season as the kids sit outside in a beautiful space and breathe fresh air while they learn.
This space really is the learning hub for the Park. Kyra told me it’s been Blessed and named by the by the Squamish Nation Elders, this space is called S7ílhen (Sah-ai-thlen) for "Food & Gathering"
It was a welcomed change of pace from my usual work rhythm just to simply ‘give’ and enjoy doing so. You are investing in the lives of your kids, the community you live in, and the future by incorporating a bit of wilderness in our busy tech saturated lives. Thank you for doing this!
Kyra asked me if I could put together a plant list of recommendations for Saturday’s planting event. Here are my thoughts for a pollinator / wildlife garden. Most importantly, I hope you enjoy the process and connection gardening brings with the great outdoors, your kids, and community.
All the best,
Jenn
PLANT LIST RECOMMENDATIONS
Lavender
Bee Balm
Catmint
Yarrow
Coneflower
Milkweed
Red flowering currant
Blackeyed Susan
Feather Reed Grass
Brazillian Verbena
Penstemon
Russian Sage
Pink Pussy Toes
Phlox
Gayfeather or Liatris
Baptisia
Lupine
Hyssop
Salvia
Foxglove
You can find these and more recommendations at this monrovia link:
https://growbeautifully.monrovia.com/grow-a-year-round-wildlife-habitat-garden-zone-6-8/