A revamp on a neglected residential garden in the city of San Francisco
The original state of the yard
This was a typical backyard in a residential setting. The owner had moved away for years and came back to find a neglected garden. Other than the lawn and a couple of camellias, not much going on in the current state. As common in the city of San Francisco, they had issues with raccoons passing through the back fence.
Facing the back fence, the left side and the back side of the yard were mostly in shade. The household was a small family without too many outdoor activities. Outdoor grills were practical, as well as occasional friends gatherings.
The design, plan view
The design was to give them a simple yet functional space for them to relax and to entertain friends occasionally. The existing patio was kept, and the lawn was removed to extend a path with a central landing area for multiple uses. Whether a recliner for a nice afternoon reading, or table sets for an outdoor party, this connected paved area provided a flexible solution.
Surrounding the brick path, the lush border planting gave them visual interests for year found enjoyment. Even just gazing down from the indoor upstair windows, this place surely was a treat to the eyes.
Prospect view from the patio
The planting design incorporated some considerations.
To reduce the trespassing of the unwanted city critters, Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii), a shrub with thorns was planted in the back fence. The dark burgundy foliage also worked as a great color of screen.
A small but diverse group of plants were used to maximize seasonal interests. Apple tree brought the spring flowers. California lilac (Ceanothus) bursted a tree of full purple afterwards, followed by the flaming Red Hot Pokers (Kniphofia) in the high summer. Just before the fall, Bridal Wreath (Francoa) sent spikes of elegant white and pink, and this was when Camelia started to sing through early winter. Hellebore (Helleborus), a long-blooming perennial, as well as the all time favorite Lemon tree provided long lasting green even in the winter.
Along the path, Silver Carpet (Dymondia) was selected to be the lawn replacement. Tough to the foot traffic and drought tolerant, their silvery foliage was far more interesting.
