Wednesday, July 20, 2011

the High Line




The High Line is a 1.5 mile linear park built on abandoned elevated rail lines in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. Originally constructed in the thirties to lift dangerous freight trains off busy streets, the rail lines sat abandoned for over twenty years after the last train in the 1980’s.

In 1999, the non-profit group Friends of the High Line was formed. Ten years later, through a joint public and private funding effort, the first section of the park opened. Friends of the High Line is now responsible for raising private funds and overseeing the park’s maintenance and operation.

My first opportunity to visit the High Line came just before the second big section of the park opened in early June. My good friend Patrick Hazari is one of the architects working for Friends of the High Line and he gave us a personal tour of the project. Exploring this urban park was definitely one of the highlights of my trip to New York.

The design of the High Line draws directly from its history. In fact there are rail lines which have been incorporated into the planting beds and give shape to the hardscape. The planting design is inspired by the plant community that developed during the 25 years The High Line sat abandoned.

My favorite design element is how the planting beds effortlessly transition to hardscape; there are no hard edges. Every space is inviting and intimately proportioned to the pedestrian. This place is a must-see for every tourist let alone any plant, architecture, or urban-design enthusiast.

Monday, July 18, 2011

Bugs Be Gone!


In an effort to use fewer chemicals in all aspects of gardening, I have been testing two natural bug repellents. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus insect repellent spray (for skin and clothing), and Bug Band insect repellent band (which you can wear on your wrist, ankle, belt loop), both sold by REI for $9, and $5, respectively. So far, I’ve had good results, with no bites; but not without noticing strong smells.

Both of these products utilize plant derived repellents. The Lemon Eucalyptus is a natural bug repellent that I could only find at REI, after reading lots of promising research data on-line. The bug band uses Geraniol, derived from Geranium, which is a fairly common ‘natural’ bug repellent ingredient.

Lemon Eucalyptus is touted to be as effective as DEET for a short periods of time. Once applied, the odor is more pleasant than DEET, but still quite pungent. The bug band also has an odor, not as pleasant as the eucalyptus spray, but not as strong either. The advantage to the band is that can be removed easily, though traces of the scent linger. (I've been wearing the band around a belt loop.)

As someone who works outside frequently, I take the health risks posed by ticks and mosquitoes very seriously. At the same time, I want to limit my exposure to chemicals, like DEET, which may affect the nervous system. These plant-based options seem to be a good balance between effectiveness and healthfulness.

The photo is one of my Hollyhocks, which have been in bloom for several weeks now.