This client had a side yard with a difficult microclimate, miserable soil, and a drainage problem where water pooled on the deck after heavy rains. They wanted something more interesting with year-round color, and were open to integrating berries and edible annuals into the design.

We brought in a fertile, fast-draining soil and formed low berms along each side of a curved path, to replace the straight-arrow paver path that was there before. The pavers were integrated as steppingstones on the berms, so the clients could harvest without walking on and compacting the soil. A French drain was installed between the berms, the path, and the patio to carry away excess water and prevent pooling.

Custom redwood trellises were installed along the fence, and along the wall next to the study. Thornless blackberries were planted along the large trellis along the fence, with green beans and flowering vines to add color the first season. Clematises and sweet peas were planted on the smaller trellis on the right.

Blueberries and annual edibles were interplanted with ornamental plants and bulbs on the berms.