Parkway Gardening Requires Careful Consideration

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Gardening in the parkway, the space between the sidewalk and street, is more complicated than planting in your own yard. The parkway is public property, so anything planted there can be removed at any time. The soil is often compacted and inhospitable for many plants, and the area may be shaded by nearby trees or exposed to harsh conditions like road salt and exhaust. Gardeners must also be cautious not to damage underground utility lines or the roots of street trees when planting in the parkway.

Why it matters

Parkway gardening is a common desire for homeowners who want to beautify their neighborhood, but it requires careful planning and consideration to avoid potential issues. Understanding the unique challenges of the parkway environment can help gardeners choose appropriate plants and planting methods to create a successful and sustainable parkway garden.

The details

The parkway is public property, so anything planted there can be removed without notice. The soil is often compacted, making it difficult for plants to thrive. The area may be shaded by nearby trees or exposed to harsh conditions like road salt and exhaust. Gardeners must be cautious not to damage underground utility lines or the roots of street trees when planting in the parkway.

• Before planting, call 811 to have utility lines located and flagged to avoid damage.
• Allow several days for technicians to come and locate the utility lines.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Before making any gardening plans for the parkway, be sure to call 811 to have utility lines located and flagged to avoid potential damage.