A species-rich woody plant collector's gardenThe evolution of a beautiful, biodiverse woodland garden in Northwest Washington: construction through 15 years of maintenance and growth
Establishment and Evolution - 2015-2021
As the specimens trees and anchor plantings began to create more microclimates and habitat structure, the garden enjoyed a number of years with large areas of full sun, supporting meadow-like perennial and bulb plantings which would gradually transition to a woodland mosaic
“Quote from Sari”
Sari Seegmiller, homeowner
Current State - 2022 and Beyond
Some initial specimen trees are reaching maturity, including rare slow-growing Magnolia species.
Each island bed has developed structure from ground level to high canopy
The site now has a water feature, productive fruit trees and vegetable garden as well as ample habitat for birds, insects, reptiles, amphibians and mammals.
The work is mainly focused on maintaining tree health, and moving and editing perennials as the mosaic of habitat naturally shifts in the garden over time.
Project Intiation - 2011
.25 acres of cleared land around new construction in Zone 8 Cold Mediterranean Climate
The project began with deer fencing and hardscaping, and planting of future specimens trees as seedlings
