From Barren Plot to Urban Oasis


Today we’re visiting with Max Cannon who gardens in south San Francisco, California:

Our garden started as a barren plot of concrete and hard-pan clay in 2017, our mission has been to create a feeling of oasis in an urban setting.

close up of tropical plants

Gardening is our primary tool for self-expression, our palette includes a diverse array of plants including bromeliads, palms, and succulents.

another view of the densely planted garden

Vertical elements are a key feature in our very small garden creating a feeling of enclosure.

small tropical trees amongst the succulent plantings

We have also tried to create intimate seating areas, places we can relax and admire the diverse array of plant forms in our garden.

close up of various succulent foliage plants

While floral color is minimal and subdued most of the year, foliage color is always a primary concern when selecting and placing plants in the garden.

various potted cacti and succulents against a blue wall

We have emphasized silver and blue in our garden, and have used bold paint colors on our home to help create a backdrop for our beloved plants, including a wall inspired by Yves St. Laurent’s Villa Oasis.

close up of air plants

Recycled material has also become a key element in our garden, a favorite is the mattress springs we scavenge around town. Here a mattress spring serves as a place for Tillandsia (air plants) to  growing and blooming.

close up of potted succulents in the garden

If you want to see more of this beautiful garden, check out their instagram: @planty_magoo

 

Have a garden you’d like to share?

Have photos to share? We’d love to see your garden, a particular collection of plants you love, or a wonderful garden you had the chance to visit!

To submit, send 5-10 photos to [email protected] along with some information about the plants in the pictures and where you took the photos. We’d love to hear where you are located, how long you’ve been gardening, successes you are proud of, failures you learned from, hopes for the future, favorite plants, or funny stories from your garden.

Have a mobile phone? Tag your photos on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter with #FineGardening!

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