Urban landscaping can be a challenge, especially when working with tough spaces like Hell Strips—the narrow, often neglected patches of land between sidewalks and streets. At Lake Effect Garden & Design, we specialize in creating sustainable, visually appealing gardens in these tricky spots.
Our latest YouTube video dives into the step-by-step process of designing a native plant garden on a Hell Strip, including practical tips, plant recommendations, and cost-saving techniques. 🌱
Watch the Video
Learn how to transform an urban Hell Strip into a thriving native garden. Check out the video below for an in-depth walkthrough with our founder, John Cleese.
Tackling Urban Gardening Challenges
Urban landscapes often come with unique challenges—compacted soil, high foot traffic, exposure to salt, and limited space. Hell Strips are no exception. These areas are notoriously hard to plant, but with thoughtful design and the right native plants, they can become thriving, eco-friendly gardens that enhance curb appeal and support biodiversity.
In this blog, we’ll share the highlights from our video, including tips on choosing the best plants, arranging them for optimal growth, and calculating costs using plant plugs. Whether you’re a professional landscaper or a homeowner looking to beautify your outdoor space, this guide is packed with actionable advice.
Step 1: Understanding the Hell Strip
A Hell Strip is more than just an empty patch of land—it’s a high-impact area that can make or break your landscape design. Factors to consider include:
Sunlight Exposure: Most Hell Strips are sunny and dry, making them ideal for drought-tolerant plants.
Soil Quality: Often compacted and nutrient-poor, these areas require hardy plants that can thrive in tough conditions.
Salt Tolerance: In regions like West Michigan, winter salt can damage plants, so choosing salt-resistant species is key.
Step 2: Selecting the Right Plants
In the video, we highlight several native plants that are perfect for Hell Strips:
Bearberry: A low-maintenance ground cover that stays green year-round and thrives in sandy, salty soils.
Prairie Dropseed: A versatile grass that adds texture and remains tidy with minimal care.
Eastern Prickly Pear: A native cactus that’s both unique and resilient, requiring little water to flourish.
Butterfly Weed: A vibrant, drought-tolerant option that supports pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Step 3: Designing for Function and Aesthetics
To ensure your Hell Strip garden is both functional and beautiful:
Measure and Plan: Use tools like Real Time Landscape Architect to map plant placement. Keep low-growing plants near sidewalks and intersections for safety and accessibility.
Create Layers: Arrange plants in layers for visual appeal. Use taller species like Blue False Indigo in the center and lower-growing plants like Bearberry along the edges.
Balance Nature and Order: While native gardens often have a wild look, incorporating neat borders can make them more appealing in urban settings.
Step 4: Calculating Costs with Plant Plugs
A standout feature in the video is the cost estimation process. By planting one foot on center, you can easily calculate the number of plugs needed based on the square footage of your Hell Strip. This method simplifies budgeting and ensures you order the right amount of plants for your project.
For example:
A 10-square-foot area requires 10 plugs.
Divide the space into sections and allocate specific plants like Bearberry and Prairie Dropseed to each zone.
This approach saves time and money while providing a clear plan for installation.
Get Inspired to Plant
Urban gardening doesn’t have to be overwhelming! With the right tools, plants, and techniques, you can transform a tough space like a Hell Strip into a vibrant, low-maintenance native garden.
Watch the full video to see the entire process in action, from design to cost calculation. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for more expert gardening tips. Share this with friends who are ready to take on their own urban gardening challenges.
At Lake Effect Garden & Design, we’re here to help you create stunning landscapes that work with nature, not against it. 🌿
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