a history of horticultural innovation
Photovoltaic solar panels, green roofs, and a 30,000 gallon underground cistern for capturing rainwater are just some of the features that are anticipated. In addition to housing horticulture staff, conference rooms, and public classrooms, the Center will contain a state-of-the-art growing facility.
What this means for Mount Auburn’ s horticulture program is essentially a transformation. Having sophisticated plant production capabilities, especially for woody plants( trees and shrubs), is necessary if we are to preserve and enhance this landscape. The proposed facility will offer both economic and ecological sustainability in our efforts to diversify the plant collections, respond to natural disasters, bring out certain styles in our Landscape Character Zones, find alternatives for grass, and pass along this historic landscape to the generations that will follow. Those who came before us might recognize some of these efforts, such as the production and application of compost. They might also recognize the spirit of innovation that seems integral to Mount Auburn’ s history. Perhaps they would struggle with some of the technological advances being contemplated today. On the other hand, it was Dr. Jacob Bigelow himself who brought the term“ technology” into common use with his 1840 publication The Useful Arts Considered in Connection with the Applications of Science. Somehow I think he would approve!
Above: Note the line of blue rain barrels along the greenhouse wall. Left: A bold red hollyhocks( Alcea rosea) growing next to a speedwell( Veronica spicata,‘ blue bouquet’) in the E-Garden.
Dennis Collins has worked at Mount Auburn for over two decades and is currenty Horticultural Curator. He recently stepped down as Board President of the Ecological Landscaping Association after a four-year term.
Maintaining Wildlife at Mount Auburn
Horticultural efforts to enhance wildlife habitat have been greater in recent years than any other time in Mount Auburn’ s history. The most recent projects, and perhaps the most visible, are the Wildflower Meadow installed at Washington Tower( left) and the Butterfly Garden along the south shore of Willow Pond. One of the largest, which may not be as noticeable since it only progresses incrementally with each year, is the woodland restoration at Consecration Dell. Here, we attempted to reverse the impact of an invasive tree species; built a system to control stormwater and stop soil erosion on the steep, forested slopes; planted thousands of native plants with wildlife food and habitat value; restored the paths that crisscross the slopes; and rebuilt a proper amphibian habitat in the area surrounding the vernal pool. One of the biggest breakthroughs in this project was the novel system of using the paths to divert stormwater and prevent erosion. Long burlap tubes, pinned to the slope and filled with compost, create a temporary planting medium. Plants are installed directly into the tubes, which begin to degrade after a year. Ultimately, the plant roots become the means by which the slopes are held in place.
6 | Sweet Auburn