2002-07-08 P & R Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Develop the concept plan and determine where p~ants are needed to treat and filter the runoff from your property. The plants should be located in the wet areas of your site in order to provide a real functioning landscape. Begin by identifying the wet areas of your property and drainage area from your down- spouts. Next, determine the types of plants that can be used for those specific locations. What works well is to identify the quantity and variety of species you will need. Use the measurements in your site analysis to develop the plan. Take the measurements of the wet areas using square feet and design the Rain Garden for one plant per 1.5 square feet. By dividing; you will know how many plants you will need. In your planting design you can mix the grasses and forbs by spacing the grasses about 3 feet apart then fill in the area with an array of different forbs between them. Try to plan for a mix of one-half grasses and one-half forbs and plant as many different species as you can purchase. This variety will ensure a better functioning landscape and provide for a continuous bloom through- out the summer. The forbs will establish a show of color and attract birds and butterflies. If you have a favorite species you can plant extra but remember to plant it in the right type of setting where it typically grows. The plant list (pages 10-14) will help you make these decisions. Remember, no matter how care- fully you place the plants, nature will most likely rearrange some. FINAL DESIGN PLAN ~--- rO .1 '. r I' , . 'f" . . . I' '. I" .. 1 . ,; i (. : :. .,l. ;:1 .. . .. ........:;r . ..... .'.; . :.. ....:. r':.. ::'\.:'..::;. .lI. , Q. Woody plantings can also be added to your gardens; however they should be used sparingly. Trees and shrubs add to the overall character of garden and even enhances the potential of the site to attract wildlife. However, when planting them you must take into account the full spread of the plants when they reach their mature size. Shrubs should be planted about.S feet apart. Also, design an understory of shade-tolerant grasses and forbs below the trees and shrubs. The importance of design and planning can not be stressed enough. To meet your needs and avoid frustration, a little planning goes a long way. With a good design, you can budget, determine the amount of time it will take to prepare the site and install the plants, and guide the development of a desirable and functioning landscape. 9