MP2 Calendar/Log

Rationale

The landscaping aspect of the green marina is very important. Landscaping provides opportunities for greater biodiversity and has the ability to reduce storm water runoff. While the area where the landscaping is to be developed had not yet been determined at the time of creation, the focus of the alternate solutions is based on color schemes and plant type.

In alternate solution one, the color palette revolves around warm colors such as vibrant reds, pinks and burnt orange. The sample plants consisted of soap wort, beach rose and holly. The holly complements the environment present on Sandy Hook since it is home to the oldest holly forest in North America. An architectural feature for this design would include a gazebo, potentially with solar panels to power any lighting in the area. 

            Alternate solution two is similar to an “eco-green” color scheme, using bright gold and greens of all shades. The sample plants of this design include ferns, switch grass, Solomon’s seal, red cedar and ox-eye daisy. These plants are a great solution because they bloom at different point during the years, ensuring a type of bloom year round. This design also plays into one of the goals of the marina, to be truly “green”.

The third solution plays into cool colors such as blues of various shades and light purples. The plants used for this design include chicory, blueberry and rabbit’s foot clover. Cooler colors are often more subdued and appealing to the general public. They also are known to create a relaxing environment, less stressful and more peaceful.

            The alternate solutions are limited to plants indigenous only to Sandy Hook. All designs exclude plants that are invasive species. The landscaping on the marina is also limited to shrubs and trees because those plants can survive in this particular sandy soil and would be most effective for absorbing water. The designs include plants that bloom during different seasons in an attempt to have blooming flora year round. Perhaps the most effective design would include the most favorable aspects of multiple solutions.

            The final solution is a combination of the plants from the second and third designs. The plants that have been chosen were selected for their brilliant colors and seasonal blooms. These plants fit the criteria for thriving in direct sunlight and having a tolerance for salt spray. Some sample plants from the chosen solution include chicory, high bush blueberry, ox eye daisies, and the American holly. The final landscape design focuses on highlighting the beauty of these plants in an aesthetic manner that complements its surroundings.

Chicory

Highbush Blueberry

Ox Eye Daisy

American Holly

Final Plant List

Model

This model is a representation of how the rain garden concept is intended to work. It also shows the different blooms allotted for each season.