# SF Terraced Garden Transformation Guide ![[visionlarge.jpeg]] Transform a sloped San Francisco garden into a terraced oasis, combining modern decking with naturalistic terraced landscaping. This guide details our approach to creating a multi-level garden that maximizes space while maintaining the tropical feel of the existing garden. ![[IMG_0476.jpeg]] *Starting point: Existing brick patio with established palms and tropical plants* ## Location Context - Climate Zone: 10b (San Francisco) - Typical Conditions: Mild temperatures, fog, occasional rain - Challenges: Slopes, drainage requirements, microclimate considerations - Key Feature: Views of surrounding hillside ## Project Components ### 1. Base Decking Installation ($1,300) The foundation of our renovation uses InstaDeck composite decking for the main seating area. ![[Pasted image 20241205034736.png]] ![[Pasted image 20241205034819.png]] #### Materials Breakdown: - InstaDeck Panels (4 sets of 4x4ft): $1,000 - Why InstaDeck? Low maintenance, long-lasting, modern aesthetic - Installation tip: Ensure proper support and leveling - Installation Materials: $300 - Includes gravel base, sand, landscape fabric - Pro tip: Don't skip the proper base preparation ### 2. Terraced Garden Beds ($1,600) ![[Pasted image 20241205035053.png]] #### Design Philosophy: - 10" height differences between levels - Natural flow from deck outward - Creates distinct planting zones - Improves drainage management #### Materials & Methods: ``` Terrace Construction Layers (bottom to top): 1. Compacted base 2. Drainage rock + perforated pipe 3. Filter fabric 4. Retaining blocks 5. Soil 6. Plants ``` #### Key Components: - Retaining Wall Blocks: $800 - Why blocks vs. wood? Longer lasting, better moisture resistance - Installation tip: Stagger blocks for stability - Drainage System: $300 - Critical for SF's rainy season - Design prevents water accumulation - Soil & Amendments: $500 - Custom mix for each level - Focuses on drainage and root support ### 3. Plant Zones ($1,000) #### Upper Terrace ($400) ![[Pasted image 20241205040500.png]] - Full Sun Plants - Bird of Paradise - Drought-tolerant grasses - Succulents - Why these plants? Maximize sun exposure, drought resistant #### Middle Terrace ($300) ![[Pasted image 20241205040031.png]] - Mixed Sun/Shade - Princess Flower - Kangaroo Paw - Native ferns - Design principle: Create transition zone #### Lower Terrace ($300) ![[Pasted image 20241205040102.png]] - Shade Tolerant - Sword Ferns - Heuchera - Japanese Forest Grass - Focus: Ground coverage and texture ### 4. Additional Features ($1,000) #### Safety & Accessibility: - Step Stones: $200 - Natural stone paths - Prevents soil compaction - Creates maintenance access ![[Pasted image 20241205040135.png]] #### Infrastructure: - Drip Irrigation: $500 - Zone-specific watering - Smart controller compatible - Water conservation focus ![[Pasted image 20241205040217.png]] #### Aesthetics: - Lighting: $300 - Path illumination - Accent lighting - Solar options ![[Pasted image 20241205040235.png]] ## Phasing Strategy ### Phase 1: Foundation ($2,000) ![Phase 1 implementation diagram] *Shows initial deck and first terrace installation* 1. InstaDeck installation 2. First terrace wall 3. Basic drainage setup ### Phase 2: Structure ($1,500) ![Phase 2 implementation diagram] *Shows additional terrace construction* 1. Remaining terrace walls 2. Soil filling 3. Initial planting ### Phase 3: Finishing ($1,500) ![Phase 3 implementation diagram] *Shows final plantings and features* 1. Complete plantings 2. Lighting installation 3. Pathway completion ## Maintenance Plan ### Seasonal Tasks ```markdown Spring: - Prune winter growth - Check drainage - Add mulch Summer: - Monitor irrigation - Deadhead flowers - Trim palms Fall: - Plant perennials - Clean gutters - Check lighting Winter: - Protect sensitive plants - Clear drainage - Maintain paths ``` ## Budget Summary Total Project Cost: $5,000 ## Cost-Saving Strategies ### 1. Material Sourcing Tips - Buy materials like soil, mulch, and gravel in bulk to reduce costs ([Bargain Landscape Supply](https://san-francisco-ca.bargainlandscapesupply.com)) - Look for recycled or reclaimed materials for hardscaping elements ([Growtivation](https://www.growtivation.com/simple-ideas-to-keep-the-landscaping-cost-down)) - Take advantage of end-of-season sales at nurseries and garden centers ([Arka Energy](https://www.arkaenergy.com/learn/diy-landscaping-ideas)) - Check platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for secondhand tools and materials ### 2. DIY Opportunities - Prepare your own soil mix using compost and amendments - Propagate plants from cuttings or seeds to expand your garden ([Growtivation](https://www.growtivation.com/simple-ideas-to-keep-the-landscaping-cost-down)) - Install your own gravel paths or simple retaining walls - Install a basic drip irrigation system yourself ### 3. Phasing Suggestions Learn more about [phased landscape projects](https://www.sitegrouplandscaping.com/phased-landscape-projects/): - Start with a single terrace or section of the garden - Focus on drainage and soil improvement first - Add plants over time, starting with key structural elements - Plan for future expansion in your initial layout ### 4. Plant Propagation Methods - Division: Split perennials like ferns and grasses - Cuttings: Propagate succulents and shrubs - Layering: Use for vines and shrubs - Seed Saving: Collect and store seeds for future planting ## Local Resources ### Soil Suppliers - [Lyngso Garden Materials](https://www.lyngsogarden.com) (South San Francisco) - American Soil & Stone (Richmond) - Bay Area Landscape Supply (San Francisco) ### Plant Nurseries Read more about [SF's best nurseries](https://secretsanfrancisco.com/best-plant-nurseries-sf/): - [Sloat Garden Center](https://sloatgardens.com) (Multiple SF locations) - [Flora Grubb Gardens](https://floragrubb.com) (Bayview) - Clement Nursery (Richmond District) ### Tool Rentals - [Cole Hardware](https://www.colehardware.com/services/tool-rental/) (Multiple SF locations) - Home Depot Tool Rental Center (Colma) - Rental Depot SF (SOMA) ## SF-Specific Gardening Notes ### Fog and Microclimate Considerations Learn about [SF fog's impact on plants](https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/09/14/climate/san-francisco-fog.html): - Choose fog-tolerant plants like coast redwoods and sword ferns - Utilize fog drip for natural irrigation - Consider microclimate variations ([Sloat Gardens Guide](https://sloatgardens.com/plants-that-will-thrive-in-your-microclimate-part-3-san-francisco-growing-tips/)) ### Local Planning and Regulations See [SF Urban Agriculture Law](https://urbanaglaw.org/planning-and-zoning/san-francisco-california/): - Check permit requirements for landscape changes - Follow water use restrictions during droughts - Review guidelines for urban tree management ### Community Engagement - Consider impacts on neighboring properties - Join local gardening groups - Share resources and knowledge with neighbors Learn more about fog's contribution to Bay Area ecosystems at the [Parks Conservancy](https://www.parksconservancy.org/article/how-does-fog-contribute-bay-area-ecosystems) and get additional climate insights from [Marin Master Gardeners](https://marinmg.ucanr.edu/BASICS/CLIMATE/). ## Progress Documentation *Space for documenting transformation* ## Lessons Learned (To be updated as project progresses) --- *This guide is a living document and will be updated as the project progresses. Feel free to adapt these plans to your own garden space, considering your specific conditions and requirements.*