A community grant of $2,750 to Pollination Guelph, a local charity, helped fund the second phase of a multi-year project to transform the Hospice Wellington site into an attractive, diverse and sustainable landscape that complements the spirit and work of the organization.
In September 2012, volunteers with Pollination Guelph and Hospice Wellington planted over 300 perennials and flowering shrubs chosen to attract and provide food and habitat for pollinating insects such as butterflies and bees. In addition to providing four season colour and interest, seeds and berries on the plants will draw birds to the site, especially in the winter. Designed by Pollination Guelph, the garden replaces an area of steeply sloped and weed-prone grass that is viewed by clients and visitors using the facility’s patio and sunroom.
“Here, within the Hospice, we strive to create a positive and life-affirming atmosphere for our clients and visitors as part of end-of-life care,” says Hospice Executive Director Rosslyn Bentley. “When Pollination Guelph first proposed this collaborative project to us, we realized that it would give us the opportunity to create an environment around our facility that really reflects these values. We are delighted with the results so far and we are really looking forward to watching the gardens grow and mature over the coming years.”
The first phase of the project, completed in the spring of 2012, saw the installation of a native shrub garden which replaced another area of steeply sloped and difficult to mow grass. Phase three, planned for spring 2013, will extend this shrub garden around the building.