Many neighborhood streets in the Baltimore area were originally designed with a separation between the curb and the sidewalk. In some cases this is a large area four feet wide or more that functions as green space and helps to make the street feel more like a boulevard, especially if planted with small trees.
In most cases however, this strip is not much wider than eight to ten inches. Frustration with what to do with this strip is evidenced by the area being filled in with asphalt or concrete. The asphalt usually settles over time and the concrete never quite matches the existing concrete sidewalk. When the area is not filled in, it is over-run with crabgrass and noxious weeds, and requires regular mowing.
Rather than mowing a patch of weeds, the opportunity exists in this "left over" space to reduce trimming and mowing, create a easily maintained streetscape, reduce runoff, and help the Bay in the process, it is called a "sidewalk garden".
There are a few limitations to growing a garden in this space.
1. Plant selection is critical. Perennials should be selected for compact growth, salt tolerance and drought resistance.
2. The soils in this area will need to be supplemented with organic compost to improve soil texture and drainage.
3. The existing weeds and crab grass will have to be completely removed. This can be difficult as the weeds will be very firmly established, often with roots running under the sidewalk.
Other design considerations are also important.
In some areas where cars are always parked adjacent to the curb, some thought should be given to providing permeable paved surfaces for access to the sidewalk at intervals. Bricks set in stone seem to fit the space nicely.
Consider the overall height of the perennials you are planning to use. Suggested height should be no more than eighteen to twenty inches maximum.
The following are a few suggested plants for the sidewalk garden space in Baltimore.
Achillea (Yarrow) A great variety of this tough perennial is available, with colors ranging from rose-pink to bright yellow. Requires sun.
Baptisia (False Indigo) Yellow to blue flowering, native plant. Easily grown in sun or partial shade.
Lavandula (Lavender) An old favorite, semi evergreen. "Hidcote" is a low growing cultivar. Prefers full sun.
Penstemon (Beard Tongue) "Smallii" is a low growing variety, rose lavender blooms, short lived but will reseed. Sun to partial shade, native.
Sedum (Stonecrop) "Acre" or "Gold Moss" stonecrop is a low growing evergreen variety. Yellow flowers. Best in full sun, but will tolerate some shade.
Dianthus (Pinks) For sun or partial shade, compact growth, long season of bloom, Many varieties are available.
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