A shaded haven « Growing Spaces

: This was the original state of the space. The electrical box was obsolete.

: The box and platform was removed and some edging and compost were added by staff at the building.

: Our team initially planted blackcurrant bushes, a rhubarb plant, strawberries and marigolds in the first year.

: The following spring, the blackcurrant bushes and strawberries were ready for another year.

: We filled in the strawberries and added two more shade-lovers to fill in the spaces left by the marigolds (as they were annuals), wild garlic and some chives.

: Chives and Wild Garlic

: The blackcurrant bushes doing quite well in this seemingly impossible space.

This space was transformed from a lifeless platform for a non-functioning electrical box to a shade-drenched haven for a few select plants. This was a difficult space that we took on as a bit of a challenge, but nature prevailed and the blackcurrant bushes are thriving. The strawberries, chives and wild garlic are also doing surprisingly well in this little area. The residents have since put up a lattice on the wall with the intention of adding in some of their own climbing plants.