In 2011, the Hind Foundation granted $65,300 to Ganna Walska Lotusland to help fund the restoration of its Blue Garden. In the mid 1900’s, when Madam Walska created the Garden, it was very fashionable to create color-themed gardens. Since the Garden was over 60 years old it was desperately in need of a renovation. The renovation project included the replacement of the Blue Atlas Cedars with a slower-growing species and the thinning of surrounding trees whose canopies prevent adequate sun to reach the understory of light-loving blue plants. The restoration efforts also included the replanting of annual plants that originally filled the understory; the renovation of the soil; and the installation of an irrigation system. The project began in January 2012 and was completed in three months.
Noteworthy Outcomes
• Resource and Cost Savings The renovation of the Garden reduces the staff hours needed to maintain and water the Garden by 75% and the irrigation system not only eliminates the need for hand-watering it also reduces water usage.
• Preservation of an Iconic Garden The Blue Garden is one of the few remaining examples of a color-themed garden design and is widely known and admired by garden designers, preservationists and historians. The renovation project returns it to its original glory and will be enjoyed for generations.