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{{305inprogress|May 23, 2020}}
[[File:Christy Color pallet garden.jpg|thumb|Colorful Pallet Garden]]
==Background==
We the "Decision Makers" from the ENGR 305 Spring 2020 class, want to utilize our constructive and sustainability skills as well as our connections with in the community to create an Edible Entrance Archway for the community of Eureke to appreciate.
[[File:Image-1.jpg|thumb]]


==Problem statement==
{{Project data
The objective of this project is to create a community edible Archway to Abuelita's Garden, utilizing sustainable sourced materials, native plants and permaculture strategies to make a long lasting improvement that everyone can enjoy.
| authors = User:Chrismarks, User:GTrejo, User:Trippsmith.rsr, User:Joeyhajduk
| instance-of = Vertical garden
| location = Eureka, California
}}


==Interview(s) and Observations ==
The Spring 2020 semester required rapid adaptation and cooperation in order to stay resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, our project also had to adapt and change. Our group includes Scarlett Trippsmith, Gilbert Trejo, Christine Marks, and Joseph Hajduk of Lonny Grafman's ENGR 305 course. While we had originally planned to create a project for Abuelita's Garden, a community garden in Eureka, CA, we had to change plans after finding ourselves in quarantine. Our project now reflects the spaces and resources we are limited to and our ability to adapt!
===Interview(s)===
We talked to Matt
He says that there will be a fence built in 2 weeks time.  
He wants Kiwis and Hops


===Observations===
== Problem statement ==
Garden Slants into a Wetland(Swamp)
Birds


==Literature Review==
The objective of the project is to display four different methods of vertical gardening, adapting to our respective space and resources available.
This is a review of the available literature pertinent to the a specific project.


===Hugelkulture Basics ===
[[File:Image-1.jpg|thumb|center]]
Paragraph on the basics. <ref>This is an example of footnotes.</ref>


===Vertical Garden Options ===
== Project Evaluation Criteria ==
Short paragraph on the concerns.<ref>https://www.appropedia.org/Hydroponic_Vertical_Garden_at_Sembradores_Urbanos.</ref>


===Types of Plants ===
The following criteria will be used to assess the success of this project. These criteria were chosen based on the suggestions of the project coordinator as well as the diligent students who are working on the vertical garden entrance. The scale (1-10) represents the importance level of meeting the constraint of each listed criteria.
Short introduction to types of composting. <ref name=Example>This is an example of a named reference. You can use these named references to repeat citation content throughout the document.</ref>


==== Native Plants ====
{| class="wikitable"
Type 1 composting is a system that utilizes.....  Make sure to include description <ref>This is a third example of a plain footnote.</ref>, advantages and disadvantages, and/or have a comparison matrix.
! Criteria
! Constraints
! Weight<br>(1-10)
|-
| Cost
| Will be below the budget of $300
| 5
|-
| Maintainability
| Will be easy to repair when needed and will require minimal upkeep outside of normal operations
| 4
|-
| Aesthetics
| Must be pleasing to the eye and look professional
| 3
|-
| Educational Aspect
| Must include an educational piece for the community (something to explain the concepts and tools utilized)
| 7
|-
| Safety & Placement
| Must not interfere with walking paths and must be easily accessible
| 7
|-
| Sustainability
| Must consider sustainability in the short and long term in design and function
| 8
|-
| Functionality
| Must sufficiently act as a vertical garden and appealing entranceway
| 10
|-
| Pest Control
| Must take into consideration pest control, especially the local deer issue
| 7
|-
| Ease of Construction
| Design and materials must not be too difficult to work with
| 6
|}


==== Edible Perennials====
== Proposed Timeline ==
Type 2 composting is a system that utilizes.....  Make sure to include description, advantages and disadvantages, and/or have a comparison matrix.
<ref>This is a third example of a plain footnote.</ref>,


====Type 3====
This Timeline is not final.
Type 3 composting is a system that utilizes.....  Make sure to include description, advantages and disadvantages, and/or have a comparison matrix.<ref name=Example/>
It is expected for this timeline to be updated, through out continuation of the project.


[[File:Garden .jpg]]
{| class="wikitable"
! Final Decisions
! Due by
! Notes
|-
| Alternative solution
| 3/7
| Which Structure we decide to Prototype
|-
| Plant Choice
| 3/27
| Which Native or Edible plants we want
|-
| Materials Ready
| 4/8
| Materials gathered and ready to start construction
|-
| Finish Prototyping
| 4/14
| Make our final failures before building the real thing
|-
| Building/ Planting Party due to COVID our own individual planting
| 4/20
| Planting in our individual Pallet Gardens
|}


====Community Inquiries ====
== Interview(s) and Observations ==
[[File:Garden .jpg]]
Abuelitas serves Eureka's Homeless Community


<ref>This is an example of footnotes.</ref>
[[File:Abuelitas Sign.jpg|thumb|left]]
 
=== Interview(s) ===
 
Interview 1: on February 14th at 1 pm the "Decision Makers" met with the head of the Abuelitas garden project manager, Matt Drummond. Matt is the manager of three different community garden projects in Eureka. He showed us the Toolshed with lots of tools that will need to be utilized. The garden is on a hill slanted toward a wetland just off the 101 in Eureka. Matt said that last year's biggest issue was that the deer kept getting in. He is building a fence that will be done 2 weeks, in hopes of solving the issue. When asked about the plants he would want to see in the garden he replied with kiwis and hops. I was surprised that there weren't more people there on the regular for volunteering and whatnot.
 
=== Observations ===
 
Observation 1: The location of this garden is near a wetland behind the freeway. I observed a couple of homeless people walking by and figure if this garden was growing edible foods, it could be utilized by people who are not always able to access healthy food.
 
Observation 2: One of the striking observations that I came across was the amount of wildlife that flourished around and within the garden. The nearby wetland provided habitat for a countless number of bird species that would swarm around the garden premises. Another observation and concern was the high deer population that threatened the efficiency of the garden last season. With a proposed fence to be built this should solve the issue of deer eating staple food crops this time around.
 
== Literature Review ==
 
=== Hugelkulture Basics ===
 
[[File: Hugelkultur 0.png|thumb|https://www.permaculture.co.uk/articles/many-benefits-hugelkultur]]
 
A Hugelkultur is a raised bed, with multiple organic layers of different varieties that decompose over time. This is a great way to use spare tree trimmings lying about, for enriches the soil with biodiversity. These beds are get filled like a lasagna with composts, lawn trimmings, dead logs, manure and so on to make an excellent home for fruits and vegetables.<ref>Hayden, Nancy J., and Hayden, John P. Farming on the Wild Side: the Evolution of a Regenerative Organic Farm and Nursery. Chelsea Green Publishing, 2019.</ref><ref>https://www.permaculture.co.uk/articles/many-benefits-hugelkultur</ref>
 
=== Vertical Garden ===
 
[[File:Hydroponic Garden3.jpg|thumb|left]]
 
Vertical Gardening has many different components with the process, but the finished product can be super satisfying. We need to create pods for the different plants to make sure that they have room to grow. Irrigation, Light, and Air exposure are key for vertical gardening. Drip irrigation will probably be our best option.<ref>https://www.appropedia.org/Hydroponic_Vertical_Garden_at_Sembradores_Urbanos.</ref><ref>Kozai, et al. Plant Factory: An Indoor Vertical Farming System for Efficient Quality Food Production. Academic Press Is an Imprint of Elsevier, 2016.</ref>
Vertical Gardening deeply depends on light, water, air, and nutrients. By focusing on natural soil additives that hold moisture. Rather than strain through the soil, you are giving the plants more resilient structures to work with.<ref>López-Rodríguez, Glenny, et al. "Behavior and Evolution of Sustainable Organic Substrates in a Vertical Garden." Ecological Engineering, vol. 93, 2016, pp. 129–134.</ref>
 
=== Native Plants ===
 
[[File:Garden.jpg|thumb|left]]
 
A variety of native plants that thrive in Northern California's temperate rainforest climate can be implemented into Abuelita's Garden. Some potential species include the Fuchsia-flowering gooseberry, Pink-flowering currant, Common Snowberry, and the Bluff California Lilac. These specific varieties provide habitat for local wildlife and have aesthetically pleasing blooms or berries during the winter months. While native perennials are not the focus of this project they still do provide positive impacts upon the overall environment especially when companion planted with conventional food crops.<ref>Rubin, Greg, and Lucy Warren. The California Native Landscape the Homeowners Design Guide to Restoring Its Beauty and Balance. Timber Press, 2013.</ref>
 
Being aware of the seasonal patterns that affect native plants and all crops, in general, is extremely vital to the success of any garden design. Planting during the winter season must be devised around the potential frosts that could threaten the survival of young saplings or transplants. The best season to plant native species is during the winter months as this provides exponential amounts of rainwater to help establish fresh transplants. Based on the information provided in this book our group will begin planting native species just in time for the newly established plants to receive a substantial amount of rainfall.<ref>Popper, Helen Ann. California Native Gardening: a Month-by-Month Guide. University of California Press, 2012.</ref>
With Abuelita's Garden having relatively close proximity to the coastline, being aware of potential flooding and threats of sea-level rise in the near future would be very important. Specific native marsh or wetland species would be a beneficial addition to the garden in order to provide education for the public on the preservation of our endemic coastal plants that are currently under threat of extinction.<ref>Garner KL, Chang MY, Fulda MT, Berlin JA, Freed RE, Soo-Hoo MM, Revell DL, Ikegami M, Flint LE, Flint AL, Kendall BE. 2015. Impacts of sea-level rise and climate change on coastal plant species on the central California coast. PeerJ 3:e958 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.958</ref>
 
=== Community Inquiries ===
 
[[File:Abuelitas Valentinesday 2020.jpg|thumb]]
 
Abuelitas serves Eureka's Homeless Community Garden, the garden is dedicated to providing homeless clients of Redwood Community Action Agency (RCAA) fresh produce year-round, with opportunities to learn environmentally friendly growing practices. In the past Abuelitas has had free workshops on pruning fruit trees and how to nourish the soil.<ref>People Powered Produce. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2020, from http://www.northcoastgardens.org/</ref>
 
Community Gardens have adopted a political performance by a number of radical social movements. They are mentioned in writing from global justice and anti-capitalist movements, for example, Cuba went through a Green Revolution after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Cuba was left without resources for food so they started building and creating community gardens so they were able to harvest their own food without relying on other resources. Community gardens are a way for communities to come together and create a sustainable and free way of eating healthy food.<ref>Nettle, Claire. Community Gardening As Social Action. Ashgate, 2014.</ref>
 
Community Gardens can be beneficial to the environment and to the well being and health of community members. The introduction of community gardens may be able to reduce the impact of food deserts in low-income areas and allow residents an opportunity to access nutritious foods that they may otherwise not have access to. They can be a helpful addition to many communities by increasing the availability of healthy food, strengthening community ties, and creating a more sustainable system. Since we have needed to change the project around due to COVID the rest of this page will reflect each of our takes on vertical gardens and how they can make a beneficial environment in the safety of our own homes.<ref>Lawson, Laura J. City Bountiful: A Century of Community Gardening in America. Berkeley: U of California, 2005. Web.</ref>
 
=== Construction and Materials ===
 
It is preferred to use recycled and sustainable materials when possible. While in the early stages of research, a new fence is planned to be built on the project site around the perimeter of the garden. Different methods and materials were explored in order to find what would be best for the needs of our project. Three different materials were examined for appropriate use: wood, salvaged wood, and bamboo.
 
===== Wood =====
 
This<ref>Brimer, John Burton. 1971. Homeowner's Complete Outdoor Building Book. [Rev., expanded, updated]. New York: Popular Science Pub. Co.</ref> was an excellent source on both lumber choices and trellis structures, which will likely be incorporated in the project. Cedar, cypress, redwood, and white pine would be optimal for our project for its structural strength and rot-resistance. While the affordability of each wood is still in question and is likely regional, these four will be our go-to's if we decide to purchase new lumber for the project. Salvaged wood was also mentioned in the book as a possible material source and would be much more affordable and environmentally friendlier than purchasing new wood. While another source will be consulted for information on salvaged wood, this book offered fine tips.
 
===== Salvaged Wood =====
 
This<ref>"Preparing Wood Pallets for Upcycling." PartSelect.com. Accessed February 17, 2020. https://www.fix.com/blog/preparing-wood-pallets-for-upcycling/.</ref> site offered an insightful guide to finding safe wooden pallets and preparing them for projects. This might be our best choice for building material as there is likely an abundance within a reasonable distance of the project site. Assuming we can acquire safe pallets free or at a cheap price, it would be our most economical choice. Important takeaways include:
 
* Look for IPPC logo
* If marked with codes DB, HT, or EPAL, it is safe. Otherwise, it is safer to discard
* Avoid all colored pallets
* Break down the pallet carefully using a cat's paw or pry bar
 
===== Bamboo =====
 
Reading through this<ref>Janssen, Jules J. A. 1988. Building with Bamboo. Intermediate Technology.</ref> manual on bamboo revealed that it is likely not the best option for our project. Sourcing bamboo would be less convenient and likely less affordable than salvaged wood, and the limitations of bamboo make it less than compatible with the project location. While it was an excellent source of learning the uses of bamboo construction and the material could find its place in other parts of the garden, it is likely not our best option.
 
==== Methods ====
 
Along with methods for constructing a trellis to use as a vertical garden space. The first post setting method was using a concrete substitute that would be more environmentally friendly than conventional concrete. Greencrete<ref>Becknell, Natalie Peterson, Micah Hale, Seamus F. Freyne, Stephan Anthony Durham and Anthony J. Lamanna. "Greencrete: A project on environmentally friendly concrete." (2006).</ref> was considered, which recycles industrial byproducts such as fly ash and slag cement. It may be worth the extra effort assuming the materials are easily accessible, but in reality it is most likely outside the scope of our project. The second and preferred method is to key<ref>"22 Concrete Alternatives for Driveways, Fence Posts and Foundations." Home Stratosphere, December 4, 2019. https://www.homestratosphere.com/concrete-alternatives/.</ref> the posts. This method includes adding a wide board, perpendicular to the direction the post will be stressed, to the post about an inch under the soil. This adds reinforcement where necessary without the need for concrete, which would likely increase the risk of the post rotting. This method will also make the post easier to replace if necessary.
Building a trellis is something we can likely do while integrating the new fence, thus giving it multiple uses. This<ref>Brimer, John Burton. 1971. Homeowner's Complete Outdoor Building Book. [Rev., expanded, updated]. New York: Popular Science Pub. Co.</ref> book gave a brief overview of various trellis designs, which will contribute to the overall design and aesthetic choices of the vertical garden. It also gave insight such as taking into account the foreseen size and weight of the plants expected to climb it, suggesting stringer, thicker wood for woody plants.
 
=== Designing interpretive materials ===


===Designing interpretive materials===
According to ______ interpretive materials for composting should include....
According to ______ interpretive materials for composting should include....


==References==
{| class="wikitable"
{{Reflist}}
! Quantity
! Material
! Source
! Cost ($)
! Total ($)
|-
| 6
| wood, plants, poles, chicken wire, soil, mulch
| Hensons
| 150.00
| 150.00
|-
'''Total Cost'''
| align="left"| '''150.00'''
|}
 
== Construction ==
 
=== Gil - Vertical Pallet Garden ===
 
Required Materials:
 
* Pry bar
* Hammer
* Hand saw
* Hack saw
* 2 wood pallets with an HT stamp
* Weed cover
* Nails
* Potting soil (1 1.5 cubic foot bag)
 
{{Step
| number = 1
| text = Find two pallets with stamps indicating they were treated safely
| image = File:Gil-2.jpg
| caption = Pallets with safe stamps
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 2
| text = Look for the IPCC logo and HT (heat-treated)
| image = File:Gil-1.jpg
| caption = IPCC Heat-treated stamp logo
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 3
| text = Break down four boards from one of the pallets using a hammer, pry bar, and a saw
| image = File:Gil-3.jpg
| caption = Tools used to break down pallet
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 4
| text = Wear safety goggles and gloves as pallet very likely has rusted nails and splinters could hit eye when prying boards
carefully remove any nails with a hammer
| image = File:Gil-4.jpg
| caption = Rusty nails in boards
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 5
| text = From one of the boards, cut out a few inches to use as a spacer for the support legs. This will allow space for the bottom board to fit in between the leg and the pallet
| image = File:Gil-5.jpg
| caption = Spacer between boards
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 6
| text = If you wish to paint the boards now is a perfect time! Just make sure you know how long each board is going to be and which sides will be facing out ahead of time
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 7
| text = Arrange the pallet and boards to the desired positions and clamp together. Cut the boards to appropriate sizes to remove excess board length, while leaving enough room for the bottom board to extend a few inches in the front (to prevent it from falling forward). Using nails at least long enough to go through the board, space, and pallet, drive two through each of the three spaces the boards connect with.
| image = File:Gil-8.jpg
| caption = Front view
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 8
| text = Each supporting leg should form an "A" with the bottom board connecting to the pallet and supporting leg. This creates a strong triangle for the pallet to lean on, which will support its weight along with the weight of the wet soil.
| image = File:Gil-7.jpg
| caption = Side view
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 9
| text = Using a hacksaw, cut away any dangerous nails sticking through either side
| image = File:Gil-9.jpg
| caption = Nails that got cut down
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 10
| text = Folding over the weed cover to make two layers, stuff it inside the pallet to form a pocket. Using nails or staples, secure the pockets to the pallet on all four sides. Make sure that the pocket will be as deep as at least 6 inches for soil and some mulch. Be sure not to create tears in the cover with the nails.
| image = File:Gil-10.jpg
| caption = Weed cover secured to side
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 11
| text = Fill the pockets with soil and use a stick to poke through the soil and allow it to settle.
| image = File:Gil-12.jpg
| caption = Soil added to pockets
}}
 
{{Step
| number = 12
| text = Your vertical garden is ready! Transplant plants or sow seeds to enjoy your new pallet garden. Plants that do not have deep roots will work best. This form of vertical gardening would work best as an herb garden. Be sure to add mulch to protect the soil from losing too much moisture too quickly. A thin layer of wood ships would do fine.
| image = FIle:Gil-13.jpg
| caption = Finished pallet garden
}}
 
=== Christy:Vertical Pallet Garden ===
 
[[File:Christy Color pallet garden.jpg|thumb|center|Colorful Pallet Garden]]
 
1) Found a pallet and stripped two boards off it
2) Then put burlap on the back of the pallet to contain the soil and plants
3) Drilled the extra wood pallets under the pallets still attached to create three shelves
4) Placed the soil in the pallet shelves and then planted peas, kale
 
=== Joseph:Vertical Trellis Garden ===
 
[[File:Joeys Vertical Trelis.jpg|thumb|left]]
 
[[File:Joey Trellis Garden.jpg|thumb]]
 
1) Found a metal trellis in my parent's backyard
2) Bought pots, plants, and metal wraps from Lowe's
3) Potted the plants and began to selectively attach them with the metal wraps to strategic parts of trellis
4) Carefully remove the screws from the metal wraps and insert them in the holes in the trellis
5) Reattach the screw and tighten enough to allow the pot to firmly rest in slot
6) Arranged in an aesthetic manner that also provides staggered lighting so that all of the plants receive sunlight throughout the day
 
=== Scarlett: Organizer Herb Tower ===
 
[[File:Scarlett Herb Tower Front.jpg|thumb|left|FRONT]]
 
[[File:Scarletts Herb tower Behind.jpg|thumb|BACK]]
 
'''Ingredient'''
 
* 1 bag of soil
* 1 (Shoe preferred) organizer
* 1 large bucket
* 1 Tomato Cage
* 2+ Seasonal Herb Starts
 
'''Recipe'''
Step 1 - Fill your Large bucket with ½ a bag of soil, be sure to leave enough for your organizer.
Step 2 - Place your Tomato Cage inside the bucket now filled with dirt.
Step 3 - Using the grommets attach your organizer to the top of the tomato cage. (No grommets: make 3 small incisions at the top of the organizer.
Step 4 - Tape down every other row of pockets. Fill non taped pockets with soil (see step 5)
Step 5 - So the organizer does not fall to one side during the soil filling, be sure to start filling the middle of the organizer, top to bottom. Making sure the organizer stays balanced alternate filling pockets on each side.
Step 6 - Plant your chosen herbs. Water with a drop of molasses. Add soil as needed.
Step 7 - Make sure that when your Herb Tower appears constructed, face the middle of the organizer in a sunny are near the kitchen, facing south, for optimal sun exposure.
 
== Timeline ==
 
'''Gil:'''
2-3 days
 
'''Christy:'''
The extent of this project took about three days to set up and create
 
'''Joey:'''
The project took around 2-3 days to complete once all of the materials were gathered. If not for the brainstorming and having to head back to the story to buy different parts due to improper sizes of metal wraps this project could be complete in the course of a day.
 
'''Scarlett:'''
1-2 days for materials and construction
 
== Individual Costs ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
| Gil
| Plants, Burlap, and tools
| Ace Hardware
| 50.00
| Christy
| Burlap and Plants
| Ace Hardware
| 40.00
| Joey
| Clay pots, Plants, and Hose Clamp
| Ace Hardware
| 50.00
|- class="sortbottom"
| colspan="4" align="right" | '''Total Cost'''
! 140.00
|}
 
== Operation ==
 
'''Gil:'''
Daily: Check on plants, and water as necessary.
Yearly: Change soil or add small amounts of amendments to prevent the potting soil from depleting
.
'''Christy:'''
Open spaces between pallet slats are ideal for dividing rows of small plants. Herbs, lettuce and strawberries are perfect choices for starting. There are many ways of creating a pallet garden and these picture are just a few examples. Its also a great alternatives for areas that do not have space for gardening in beds. You'll want to keep the pallet flat for the next 2-3 weeks while the roots take hold. Continue to water it, just like a regular garden.After that, you can stand it up and lean it against some sort of support.
Maintenance:
 
* Pallet gardens do not take to much maintenance when it comes to weeding, but when it comes to vines growing in the pallet there need to be a structure to support the vines other then the pallet.
 
Schedule
Daily- Making sure the pallet gets plenty of sun
Weekly- Depending on the plant it is important to water it two or three times a week
Yearly- Making sure the plants are staying healthy and the pallet is staying intact
'''Joey:'''
Maintaining this trellis garden is fairly simple and practical for the cramped homeowner that would like to grow vegetables in a small amount of space. Picking out the correct trellis materials for your setting is key, and that can range from size to composition of material. Once a desirable trellis is chosen then one can move onto the fun part of picking their favorite plants and pot sizes. You have to keep in mind the size and weights of the pots and how to balance out that weight once you start attaching them to the trellis so that one portion will not become lopsided or aesthetically displeasing. Once attached onto the trellis with the hose clamps you can start watering your plants and enjoy the fruits of your vertical garden!
Daily- Make sure your plants are getting water adequately and that they are receiving enough sunlight.
Yearly- Change soil and if trellis becomes worn down or broken repair as desired.
'''Scarlett:'''
Daily: Water with a drop of molasses, and inspect which herbs are ready for picking soon
Yearly: change herbs twice yearly to have seasonal yields through out the year
 
== Conclusion ==
 
'''Gil:'''
 
The biggest lesson I learned through this project was the value of a proper workspace. It was difficult building this without clamps or even a table to work from (I really wish I had bought some clamps!) but I am happy with the way it came out, precarious nails and all. I also learned that even without all the proper tools you can still create useful things that can serve a function. As it stands, it stands! It has enough support to survive any windy or rainy days without toppling over, and the soil pockets hold just fine. In total, I was able to set three different shelves to place herbs in and can fit at least 12 individual plants. This was a fun project during the quarantine and I hope to create a second (prettier) one when I have more space for gardening. Also, if my neighbors are reading this, I apologize for all the hammering!
 
'''Christy:'''
 
Overall the pallet garden is great alternative for areas that dont have much space for planting or garden beds. Its easy and fun to create and is moveable with little weeding.
 
'''Joey:'''
 
This project has been really enjoyable to create regardless of all of the ups and downs that the coronavirus has thrown our way over the course of the semester. Even though our initial plan of working at Abueltia's garden had to be cancelled I'm still grateful for my team sticking together and adapting to the situation at hand by creating our own individualized garden projects. My particular project was a blast to create because I already love to garden at home. Showing my parents what you can create from a simple trellis that was ignored in our backyard for years blew their minds and opened their eyes to the endless possibilities that vertical gardening can lead to.
 
'''Scarlett:'''
 
This project was a really fun project that anyone with a joy for cooking should consider. Having fresh available herbs close by, and using simple items that can be found in most homes if not at a nearby nursery. I recommend using a shoe organizer to give your herb roots space to grow, smaller organizers might not accommodate for this. I feel like especially during this time of shelter in place, people with limited space can utilize this strategy and it could inspire them to cook more with fresh herbs.
 
== Group Conclusion ==
 
== References ==
 
<references />
 
{{Page data
| part-of = Engr305 Appropriate Technology
| keywords = gardening, COVID-19
| sdg = SDG02 Zero hunger, SDG11 Sustainable cities and communities
| organizations = Cal Poly Humboldt
| license = CC-BY-SA-3.0
| language = en
}}


[[Category:Engr305 Appropriate Technology]]
[[Category:Engr305 Appropriate Technology]]
[[Category:Vertical gardens]]
[[Category:Gardening]]
[[Category:COVID-19]]

Latest revision as of 16:50, 29 January 2024

Colorful Pallet Garden
FA info icon.svg Angle down icon.svg Project data
Authors Christy Marks
Gilbert Trejo
Scarlett
Joseph Hajduk
Location Eureka, California
Instance of Vertical garden
OKH Manifest Download

The Spring 2020 semester required rapid adaptation and cooperation in order to stay resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, our project also had to adapt and change. Our group includes Scarlett Trippsmith, Gilbert Trejo, Christine Marks, and Joseph Hajduk of Lonny Grafman's ENGR 305 course. While we had originally planned to create a project for Abuelita's Garden, a community garden in Eureka, CA, we had to change plans after finding ourselves in quarantine. Our project now reflects the spaces and resources we are limited to and our ability to adapt!

Problem statement[edit | edit source]

The objective of the project is to display four different methods of vertical gardening, adapting to our respective space and resources available.

Image-1.jpg

Project Evaluation Criteria[edit | edit source]

The following criteria will be used to assess the success of this project. These criteria were chosen based on the suggestions of the project coordinator as well as the diligent students who are working on the vertical garden entrance. The scale (1-10) represents the importance level of meeting the constraint of each listed criteria.

Criteria Constraints Weight
(1-10)
Cost Will be below the budget of $300 5
Maintainability Will be easy to repair when needed and will require minimal upkeep outside of normal operations 4
Aesthetics Must be pleasing to the eye and look professional 3
Educational Aspect Must include an educational piece for the community (something to explain the concepts and tools utilized) 7
Safety & Placement Must not interfere with walking paths and must be easily accessible 7
Sustainability Must consider sustainability in the short and long term in design and function 8
Functionality Must sufficiently act as a vertical garden and appealing entranceway 10
Pest Control Must take into consideration pest control, especially the local deer issue 7
Ease of Construction Design and materials must not be too difficult to work with 6

Proposed Timeline[edit | edit source]

This Timeline is not final. It is expected for this timeline to be updated, through out continuation of the project.

Final Decisions Due by Notes
Alternative solution 3/7 Which Structure we decide to Prototype
Plant Choice 3/27 Which Native or Edible plants we want
Materials Ready 4/8 Materials gathered and ready to start construction
Finish Prototyping 4/14 Make our final failures before building the real thing
Building/ Planting Party due to COVID our own individual planting 4/20 Planting in our individual Pallet Gardens

Interview(s) and Observations[edit | edit source]

Abuelitas Sign.jpg

Interview(s)[edit | edit source]

Interview 1: on February 14th at 1 pm the "Decision Makers" met with the head of the Abuelitas garden project manager, Matt Drummond. Matt is the manager of three different community garden projects in Eureka. He showed us the Toolshed with lots of tools that will need to be utilized. The garden is on a hill slanted toward a wetland just off the 101 in Eureka. Matt said that last year's biggest issue was that the deer kept getting in. He is building a fence that will be done 2 weeks, in hopes of solving the issue. When asked about the plants he would want to see in the garden he replied with kiwis and hops. I was surprised that there weren't more people there on the regular for volunteering and whatnot.

Observations[edit | edit source]

Observation 1: The location of this garden is near a wetland behind the freeway. I observed a couple of homeless people walking by and figure if this garden was growing edible foods, it could be utilized by people who are not always able to access healthy food.

Observation 2: One of the striking observations that I came across was the amount of wildlife that flourished around and within the garden. The nearby wetland provided habitat for a countless number of bird species that would swarm around the garden premises. Another observation and concern was the high deer population that threatened the efficiency of the garden last season. With a proposed fence to be built this should solve the issue of deer eating staple food crops this time around.

Literature Review[edit | edit source]

Hugelkulture Basics[edit | edit source]

https://www.permaculture.co.uk/articles/many-benefits-hugelkultur

A Hugelkultur is a raised bed, with multiple organic layers of different varieties that decompose over time. This is a great way to use spare tree trimmings lying about, for enriches the soil with biodiversity. These beds are get filled like a lasagna with composts, lawn trimmings, dead logs, manure and so on to make an excellent home for fruits and vegetables.[1][2]

Vertical Garden[edit | edit source]

Hydroponic Garden3.jpg

Vertical Gardening has many different components with the process, but the finished product can be super satisfying. We need to create pods for the different plants to make sure that they have room to grow. Irrigation, Light, and Air exposure are key for vertical gardening. Drip irrigation will probably be our best option.[3][4] Vertical Gardening deeply depends on light, water, air, and nutrients. By focusing on natural soil additives that hold moisture. Rather than strain through the soil, you are giving the plants more resilient structures to work with.[5]

Native Plants[edit | edit source]

Garden.jpg

A variety of native plants that thrive in Northern California's temperate rainforest climate can be implemented into Abuelita's Garden. Some potential species include the Fuchsia-flowering gooseberry, Pink-flowering currant, Common Snowberry, and the Bluff California Lilac. These specific varieties provide habitat for local wildlife and have aesthetically pleasing blooms or berries during the winter months. While native perennials are not the focus of this project they still do provide positive impacts upon the overall environment especially when companion planted with conventional food crops.[6]

Being aware of the seasonal patterns that affect native plants and all crops, in general, is extremely vital to the success of any garden design. Planting during the winter season must be devised around the potential frosts that could threaten the survival of young saplings or transplants. The best season to plant native species is during the winter months as this provides exponential amounts of rainwater to help establish fresh transplants. Based on the information provided in this book our group will begin planting native species just in time for the newly established plants to receive a substantial amount of rainfall.[7] With Abuelita's Garden having relatively close proximity to the coastline, being aware of potential flooding and threats of sea-level rise in the near future would be very important. Specific native marsh or wetland species would be a beneficial addition to the garden in order to provide education for the public on the preservation of our endemic coastal plants that are currently under threat of extinction.[8]

Community Inquiries[edit | edit source]

Abuelitas Valentinesday 2020.jpg

Abuelitas serves Eureka's Homeless Community Garden, the garden is dedicated to providing homeless clients of Redwood Community Action Agency (RCAA) fresh produce year-round, with opportunities to learn environmentally friendly growing practices. In the past Abuelitas has had free workshops on pruning fruit trees and how to nourish the soil.[9]

Community Gardens have adopted a political performance by a number of radical social movements. They are mentioned in writing from global justice and anti-capitalist movements, for example, Cuba went through a Green Revolution after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Cuba was left without resources for food so they started building and creating community gardens so they were able to harvest their own food without relying on other resources. Community gardens are a way for communities to come together and create a sustainable and free way of eating healthy food.[10]

Community Gardens can be beneficial to the environment and to the well being and health of community members. The introduction of community gardens may be able to reduce the impact of food deserts in low-income areas and allow residents an opportunity to access nutritious foods that they may otherwise not have access to. They can be a helpful addition to many communities by increasing the availability of healthy food, strengthening community ties, and creating a more sustainable system. Since we have needed to change the project around due to COVID the rest of this page will reflect each of our takes on vertical gardens and how they can make a beneficial environment in the safety of our own homes.[11]

Construction and Materials[edit | edit source]

It is preferred to use recycled and sustainable materials when possible. While in the early stages of research, a new fence is planned to be built on the project site around the perimeter of the garden. Different methods and materials were explored in order to find what would be best for the needs of our project. Three different materials were examined for appropriate use: wood, salvaged wood, and bamboo.

Wood[edit | edit source]

This[12] was an excellent source on both lumber choices and trellis structures, which will likely be incorporated in the project. Cedar, cypress, redwood, and white pine would be optimal for our project for its structural strength and rot-resistance. While the affordability of each wood is still in question and is likely regional, these four will be our go-to's if we decide to purchase new lumber for the project. Salvaged wood was also mentioned in the book as a possible material source and would be much more affordable and environmentally friendlier than purchasing new wood. While another source will be consulted for information on salvaged wood, this book offered fine tips.

Salvaged Wood[edit | edit source]

This[13] site offered an insightful guide to finding safe wooden pallets and preparing them for projects. This might be our best choice for building material as there is likely an abundance within a reasonable distance of the project site. Assuming we can acquire safe pallets free or at a cheap price, it would be our most economical choice. Important takeaways include:

  • Look for IPPC logo
  • If marked with codes DB, HT, or EPAL, it is safe. Otherwise, it is safer to discard
  • Avoid all colored pallets
  • Break down the pallet carefully using a cat's paw or pry bar
Bamboo[edit | edit source]

Reading through this[14] manual on bamboo revealed that it is likely not the best option for our project. Sourcing bamboo would be less convenient and likely less affordable than salvaged wood, and the limitations of bamboo make it less than compatible with the project location. While it was an excellent source of learning the uses of bamboo construction and the material could find its place in other parts of the garden, it is likely not our best option.

Methods[edit | edit source]

Along with methods for constructing a trellis to use as a vertical garden space. The first post setting method was using a concrete substitute that would be more environmentally friendly than conventional concrete. Greencrete[15] was considered, which recycles industrial byproducts such as fly ash and slag cement. It may be worth the extra effort assuming the materials are easily accessible, but in reality it is most likely outside the scope of our project. The second and preferred method is to key[16] the posts. This method includes adding a wide board, perpendicular to the direction the post will be stressed, to the post about an inch under the soil. This adds reinforcement where necessary without the need for concrete, which would likely increase the risk of the post rotting. This method will also make the post easier to replace if necessary. Building a trellis is something we can likely do while integrating the new fence, thus giving it multiple uses. This[17] book gave a brief overview of various trellis designs, which will contribute to the overall design and aesthetic choices of the vertical garden. It also gave insight such as taking into account the foreseen size and weight of the plants expected to climb it, suggesting stringer, thicker wood for woody plants.

Designing interpretive materials[edit | edit source]

According to ______ interpretive materials for composting should include....

Total Cost
Quantity Material Source Cost ($) Total ($)
6 wood, plants, poles, chicken wire, soil, mulch Hensons 150.00 150.00
150.00

Construction[edit | edit source]

Gil - Vertical Pallet Garden[edit | edit source]

Required Materials:

  • Pry bar
  • Hammer
  • Hand saw
  • Hack saw
  • 2 wood pallets with an HT stamp
  • Weed cover
  • Nails
  • Potting soil (1 1.5 cubic foot bag)
1
Pallets with safe stamps

Find two pallets with stamps indicating they were treated safely

2
IPCC Heat-treated stamp logo

Look for the IPCC logo and HT (heat-treated)

3
Tools used to break down pallet

Break down four boards from one of the pallets using a hammer, pry bar, and a saw

4
Rusty nails in boards

Wear safety goggles and gloves as pallet very likely has rusted nails and splinters could hit eye when prying boards carefully remove any nails with a hammer

5
Spacer between boards

From one of the boards, cut out a few inches to use as a spacer for the support legs. This will allow space for the bottom board to fit in between the leg and the pallet

6

If you wish to paint the boards now is a perfect time! Just make sure you know how long each board is going to be and which sides will be facing out ahead of time

7
Front view

Arrange the pallet and boards to the desired positions and clamp together. Cut the boards to appropriate sizes to remove excess board length, while leaving enough room for the bottom board to extend a few inches in the front (to prevent it from falling forward). Using nails at least long enough to go through the board, space, and pallet, drive two through each of the three spaces the boards connect with.

8
Side view

Each supporting leg should form an "A" with the bottom board connecting to the pallet and supporting leg. This creates a strong triangle for the pallet to lean on, which will support its weight along with the weight of the wet soil.

9
Nails that got cut down

Using a hacksaw, cut away any dangerous nails sticking through either side

10
Weed cover secured to side

Folding over the weed cover to make two layers, stuff it inside the pallet to form a pocket. Using nails or staples, secure the pockets to the pallet on all four sides. Make sure that the pocket will be as deep as at least 6 inches for soil and some mulch. Be sure not to create tears in the cover with the nails.

11
Soil added to pockets

Fill the pockets with soil and use a stick to poke through the soil and allow it to settle.

12
Finished pallet garden

Your vertical garden is ready! Transplant plants or sow seeds to enjoy your new pallet garden. Plants that do not have deep roots will work best. This form of vertical gardening would work best as an herb garden. Be sure to add mulch to protect the soil from losing too much moisture too quickly. A thin layer of wood ships would do fine.

Christy:Vertical Pallet Garden[edit | edit source]

Colorful Pallet Garden

1) Found a pallet and stripped two boards off it 2) Then put burlap on the back of the pallet to contain the soil and plants 3) Drilled the extra wood pallets under the pallets still attached to create three shelves 4) Placed the soil in the pallet shelves and then planted peas, kale

Joseph:Vertical Trellis Garden[edit | edit source]

Joeys Vertical Trelis.jpg
Joey Trellis Garden.jpg

1) Found a metal trellis in my parent's backyard 2) Bought pots, plants, and metal wraps from Lowe's 3) Potted the plants and began to selectively attach them with the metal wraps to strategic parts of trellis 4) Carefully remove the screws from the metal wraps and insert them in the holes in the trellis 5) Reattach the screw and tighten enough to allow the pot to firmly rest in slot 6) Arranged in an aesthetic manner that also provides staggered lighting so that all of the plants receive sunlight throughout the day

Scarlett: Organizer Herb Tower[edit | edit source]

FRONT
BACK

Ingredient

  • 1 bag of soil
  • 1 (Shoe preferred) organizer
  • 1 large bucket
  • 1 Tomato Cage
  • 2+ Seasonal Herb Starts

Recipe Step 1 - Fill your Large bucket with ½ a bag of soil, be sure to leave enough for your organizer. Step 2 - Place your Tomato Cage inside the bucket now filled with dirt. Step 3 - Using the grommets attach your organizer to the top of the tomato cage. (No grommets: make 3 small incisions at the top of the organizer. Step 4 - Tape down every other row of pockets. Fill non taped pockets with soil (see step 5) Step 5 - So the organizer does not fall to one side during the soil filling, be sure to start filling the middle of the organizer, top to bottom. Making sure the organizer stays balanced alternate filling pockets on each side. Step 6 - Plant your chosen herbs. Water with a drop of molasses. Add soil as needed. Step 7 - Make sure that when your Herb Tower appears constructed, face the middle of the organizer in a sunny are near the kitchen, facing south, for optimal sun exposure.

Timeline[edit | edit source]

Gil: 2-3 days

Christy: The extent of this project took about three days to set up and create

Joey: The project took around 2-3 days to complete once all of the materials were gathered. If not for the brainstorming and having to head back to the story to buy different parts due to improper sizes of metal wraps this project could be complete in the course of a day.

Scarlett: 1-2 days for materials and construction

Individual Costs[edit | edit source]

Gil Plants, Burlap, and tools Ace Hardware 50.00 Christy Burlap and Plants Ace Hardware 40.00 Joey Clay pots, Plants, and Hose Clamp Ace Hardware 50.00
Total Cost 140.00

Operation[edit | edit source]

Gil: Daily: Check on plants, and water as necessary. Yearly: Change soil or add small amounts of amendments to prevent the potting soil from depleting . Christy: Open spaces between pallet slats are ideal for dividing rows of small plants. Herbs, lettuce and strawberries are perfect choices for starting. There are many ways of creating a pallet garden and these picture are just a few examples. Its also a great alternatives for areas that do not have space for gardening in beds. You'll want to keep the pallet flat for the next 2-3 weeks while the roots take hold. Continue to water it, just like a regular garden.After that, you can stand it up and lean it against some sort of support. Maintenance:

  • Pallet gardens do not take to much maintenance when it comes to weeding, but when it comes to vines growing in the pallet there need to be a structure to support the vines other then the pallet.

Schedule Daily- Making sure the pallet gets plenty of sun Weekly- Depending on the plant it is important to water it two or three times a week Yearly- Making sure the plants are staying healthy and the pallet is staying intact Joey: Maintaining this trellis garden is fairly simple and practical for the cramped homeowner that would like to grow vegetables in a small amount of space. Picking out the correct trellis materials for your setting is key, and that can range from size to composition of material. Once a desirable trellis is chosen then one can move onto the fun part of picking their favorite plants and pot sizes. You have to keep in mind the size and weights of the pots and how to balance out that weight once you start attaching them to the trellis so that one portion will not become lopsided or aesthetically displeasing. Once attached onto the trellis with the hose clamps you can start watering your plants and enjoy the fruits of your vertical garden! Daily- Make sure your plants are getting water adequately and that they are receiving enough sunlight. Yearly- Change soil and if trellis becomes worn down or broken repair as desired. Scarlett: Daily: Water with a drop of molasses, and inspect which herbs are ready for picking soon Yearly: change herbs twice yearly to have seasonal yields through out the year

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Gil:

The biggest lesson I learned through this project was the value of a proper workspace. It was difficult building this without clamps or even a table to work from (I really wish I had bought some clamps!) but I am happy with the way it came out, precarious nails and all. I also learned that even without all the proper tools you can still create useful things that can serve a function. As it stands, it stands! It has enough support to survive any windy or rainy days without toppling over, and the soil pockets hold just fine. In total, I was able to set three different shelves to place herbs in and can fit at least 12 individual plants. This was a fun project during the quarantine and I hope to create a second (prettier) one when I have more space for gardening. Also, if my neighbors are reading this, I apologize for all the hammering!

Christy:

Overall the pallet garden is great alternative for areas that dont have much space for planting or garden beds. Its easy and fun to create and is moveable with little weeding.

Joey:

This project has been really enjoyable to create regardless of all of the ups and downs that the coronavirus has thrown our way over the course of the semester. Even though our initial plan of working at Abueltia's garden had to be cancelled I'm still grateful for my team sticking together and adapting to the situation at hand by creating our own individualized garden projects. My particular project was a blast to create because I already love to garden at home. Showing my parents what you can create from a simple trellis that was ignored in our backyard for years blew their minds and opened their eyes to the endless possibilities that vertical gardening can lead to.

Scarlett:

This project was a really fun project that anyone with a joy for cooking should consider. Having fresh available herbs close by, and using simple items that can be found in most homes if not at a nearby nursery. I recommend using a shoe organizer to give your herb roots space to grow, smaller organizers might not accommodate for this. I feel like especially during this time of shelter in place, people with limited space can utilize this strategy and it could inspire them to cook more with fresh herbs.

Group Conclusion[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Hayden, Nancy J., and Hayden, John P. Farming on the Wild Side: the Evolution of a Regenerative Organic Farm and Nursery. Chelsea Green Publishing, 2019.
  2. https://www.permaculture.co.uk/articles/many-benefits-hugelkultur
  3. https://www.appropedia.org/Hydroponic_Vertical_Garden_at_Sembradores_Urbanos.
  4. Kozai, et al. Plant Factory: An Indoor Vertical Farming System for Efficient Quality Food Production. Academic Press Is an Imprint of Elsevier, 2016.
  5. López-Rodríguez, Glenny, et al. "Behavior and Evolution of Sustainable Organic Substrates in a Vertical Garden." Ecological Engineering, vol. 93, 2016, pp. 129–134.
  6. Rubin, Greg, and Lucy Warren. The California Native Landscape the Homeowners Design Guide to Restoring Its Beauty and Balance. Timber Press, 2013.
  7. Popper, Helen Ann. California Native Gardening: a Month-by-Month Guide. University of California Press, 2012.
  8. Garner KL, Chang MY, Fulda MT, Berlin JA, Freed RE, Soo-Hoo MM, Revell DL, Ikegami M, Flint LE, Flint AL, Kendall BE. 2015. Impacts of sea-level rise and climate change on coastal plant species on the central California coast. PeerJ 3:e958 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.958
  9. People Powered Produce. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2020, from http://www.northcoastgardens.org/
  10. Nettle, Claire. Community Gardening As Social Action. Ashgate, 2014.
  11. Lawson, Laura J. City Bountiful: A Century of Community Gardening in America. Berkeley: U of California, 2005. Web.
  12. Brimer, John Burton. 1971. Homeowner's Complete Outdoor Building Book. [Rev., expanded, updated]. New York: Popular Science Pub. Co.
  13. "Preparing Wood Pallets for Upcycling." PartSelect.com. Accessed February 17, 2020. https://www.fix.com/blog/preparing-wood-pallets-for-upcycling/.
  14. Janssen, Jules J. A. 1988. Building with Bamboo. Intermediate Technology.
  15. Becknell, Natalie Peterson, Micah Hale, Seamus F. Freyne, Stephan Anthony Durham and Anthony J. Lamanna. "Greencrete: A project on environmentally friendly concrete." (2006).
  16. "22 Concrete Alternatives for Driveways, Fence Posts and Foundations." Home Stratosphere, December 4, 2019. https://www.homestratosphere.com/concrete-alternatives/.
  17. Brimer, John Burton. 1971. Homeowner's Complete Outdoor Building Book. [Rev., expanded, updated]. New York: Popular Science Pub. Co.
FA info icon.svg Angle down icon.svg Page data
Part of Engr305 Appropriate Technology
Keywords gardening, covid-19
SDG SDG02 Zero hunger, SDG11 Sustainable cities and communities
Authors Christy Marks, Gilbert Trejo, Scarlett, Joseph Hajduk, Lonny Grafman
License CC-BY-SA-3.0
Organizations Cal Poly Humboldt
Language English (en)
Related 0 subpages, 10 pages link here
Impact 750 page views
Created February 10, 2020 by Scarlett
Modified January 29, 2024 by Felipe Schenone
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