Preparation and Installation
The site should be prepared by removing any debris or undesired plantings on site . Any existing healthy native shrubs or trees should be retained within the design to preserve as much of the site ’ s natural function as possible . All non-native plants should be removed during site preparation with the intent of being replaced with native plants . Additional soil can be placed on top of the existing native soils , but should not impede the natural conveyance of runoff and should preserve the natural slope of the site . Placement or alteration of soils which impact wetlands and nearby waterways should be avoided . Avoid creating berms or excessively elevating the site which can impact the proper function and intent of the vegetative buffer . Plants should be placed according to the site plan , maintaining a natural layering effect .
Maintenance and Monitoring
The site should be managed similarly to other landscape features . Irrigation should be incorporated to allow the establishment of plant materials during the first year following installation . This can be repeated in the second year , but should be gradually reduced until plantings no longer require irrigation . The irrigation system can remain in the area , as needed , to be used during periods of drought . The site needs to occasionally be managed by weeding and mulching to prevent further weedy growth . Removal of excessive growth in the area should occur every year to manage proper growth . Site plans should allow enough room for plantings to fill in areas when they reach maturity .
Figure 20 . Vegetated buffer for marsh edge environments
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NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS MANUAL FOR KIAWAH ISLAND