As part two in the enhancement of the Orcas Island Library landscape, Emily Aring will teach landscape design principles and lead a hands-on work party to plant island-appropriate (deer, drought and wind resistant) ornamental trees, shrubs, and grasses from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 29 at the library.
Aring has designed the workshop as a participatory class. During the morning “classroom” session (over coffee and donuts), she will present on key aesthetic and ecological principles of landscape design and describe ideal plants for island gardens.
Island resident Rolf Erickson will describe the process by which he filters harmful bacteria, chemicals and metals from sewage and composts it into safe “humanure.”
Then teams will be formed to install new plantings on the library grounds. With a break for a potluck lunch, participants get hands-on experience in soil preparation, planting, transplanting and mulching, while helping to beautify the library grounds.
Registration is limited to 12 islanders with curious minds and strong backs. Email or call Margaret Payne, mpayne_orcas@live.com, 253-302-9769.
Funds, time, talent, and materials for the project are donated by Friends of the Library, Emily Aring, Rolf Erickson, Charlie Nigretto, and Driftwood Nursery.
