[CANUFNET] Replanting the Sheridan College Courtyard

[C. Kavassalis]

I received the following inquiry from a Student at Sheridan College.

She is "currently working on a project that involves a proposal for
replanting and revitalizing the courtyard in the illustration wing of the
college. Attached are some photos of the courtyard in its current state.
What used to be a large depression in the ground for a pond has been filled
with gravel and covered with concrete tiles. There are dwarf pines,
Japanese spurge, and junipers. There is also a grate running along two of
the walls for water drainage. The courtyard becomes very hot and dry in the
summer. It is surrounded by high walls on all sides, so the air is heavy
and still."

As I understand it, this courtyard is 60 ft x 30 ft and is currently sealed
off from public use. She was not clear on the depth of the soil/substrate
but suggested their was a basement underneath this courtyard. She wants to
design a native garden with a focal tree for shade. Her desire is to reduce
the heat and heaviness of the air.

She wanted to know if a red maple would be suitable to this site and how
the soil should be amended. I suggested she might consider other North
American natives but from a slightly warmer climatic zone (perhaps a Hop
Tree). I would appreciate your thoughts

I have now seen several such courtyards fall into neglect and wonder if
some of you have successfully planted and maintained such a space.

Thank you for your input.
Catherine Kavassalis
Oakville Horticultural Society
Halton MGs
905-849-7581
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