Monroe County Master Gardener Association

By Gail K.
At our April 27th meeting, Stella had Steven Stockford from the Toledo Metropark system speak on the newest
project to be installed at the Toledo Botanical Gardens. The botanical gardens are seeing a revitalization since merging with the Toledo Metropark system.

The parks deal with people from all aspects of life–young, old; along with those who are physically & mentally challenged. The project Steve is developing is an Accessible-Sensory Garden. Stella as a volunteer master gardener, has worked with Steve on other projects. They both felt our group would be able to offer some insight and ideas for the project. Below the group listens intently to Steven describe
the plans.

What is a sensory garden-it is a garden environment designed to stimulate the senses.
It involves using plants and materials that engage our senses of sight, smell, touch, taste and sound.
This type of garden can be beneficial for both adults and children with various disabilities.
Below is the preliminary layout.

Steve spoke to the various plants that could be used for sight, touch, smell and
taste. He included the types of features used for the sense of sound–the use of grasses,
bamboo–chimes etc. This feature will also have to be designed with a focus on the structural components.
Not just for safety but to ensure that there is an inclusiveness for those who may
visit. Below is a vision of a raised planting bed

Some of the major aspects of the structural components are the surfaces, sitting wall with areas for wheelchairs to join in- trellis and water walls. All of these features will add a dimension to
the sensory aspect as well as provide the type of environment needed to include ALL. Below is an option that may be used to allow wheelchair bound people to be able to roll right up to an area to plant, weed and pick the product…………..

Lastly, Steve answered our questions & we all helped with offering ideas for the project.
It is the first of its kind for the metro parks –we’re excited to see this project come to fruition
and have offered a donation—Steve and Stella both asked for any of us who have the time to
sign up to volunteer at the parks……..contact information Steven.Stockford@metroparksToledo.com
Thank you Steve–