Castle Rock Teach by Example Final Report

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TOWN OF CASTLE ROCK "Teach By Example" Program Summary Page 8 blue grass for young children to play, was the concept for the landscape portion of the project. Again, about 2,000 square feet of blue grass was removed, with around 1,000 square feet being replaced by what is called a foothills mix. The original front yard was a large blue grassed area with one ornamental tree, and a few juniper shrubs near the front of the house. The tree was a Sunburst honey locust, usually a good water conserving deciduous tree. Its growth however was stunted by a very shallow root system. The soil was clay-like, not allowing deep root zones for any plants, including grass. Water permeability was low, therefore requiring more frequent irrigation to maintain a healthy color to the grass. To correct this problem the soil preparation required a large amount of compost and tilling to . improve the texture, water and air permeability. I. The thinking went along the lines of more ornamental uses, since this area was not really used for play, or any outdoor recreational activities. There was a need for access to the back yard gate from the front door, so a more formal walkway was added, by using mountain granite already on site. This rock was originally used in a small area next to the driveway, and on the side of the house. Cedar mulch was used on the perimeter of the walkway and next to the house to diminish water loss to the ornamental shrubs and perennials, as well as to reduce the amount of heat retention around the house in the summer, with the full south-eastern exposure. Two large shade trees were added to aid this situation as well. A raised bed was added for accent and interest. Mulched areas were used around ornamental perennials and shrubs. Groupings of wildflower seed areas were interjected to break up larger grassed areas. On the north side of the home, and next to the driveway in an area with little use, mulch, shrubs and perennials were used. Decorative boulders accent the area as well. The Nettles: 929 Oakwood Drive Here again there were definite high use areas, and areas used mainly for viewing. The kids needed a good play area, and Deb wanted to use some plant rnaterial that attracted birds. Sam had plans to install a great play set in the back yard, and the family had a camper trailer that needed to be parked along side the house. Also, we had to be careful of some of the plant material to be used, because there were some allergies to junipers. So with these things in mind, design proceeded. Soil conditions were best in the area where we were going to do the least amount of planting. Compost was used, and large amounts of tilling done. In the front of the home, two large mugho pines had been planted in very close (, proximity to one another, thus causing one to be misshaped. This one was removed. '-.,;)