Kohler Pavilion Green Grows at OHSU

Initial installation of the Oregon Health + Science University Kohler Pavilion Green Screen is starting going in (see design concept here).  The first few planters allowed us to experiment with the stakes to create a ‘jump point’, which gives the plantings, which are limited to the relatively small existing planters, more of a broad span to create more expansive screening on the exterior of the parking structure.

After some field fitting, we landed on a configuration that was suitable and provided 10′ of width for plantings to spread.  Teufel Landscape provided the installation services, which also included cleaning out existing vegetation, removal of old soil, rehabilitation of irrigation system, as well as installation of new soil, plants, and trellis pieces.

As a cost-effective and long-lasting solution, we re-purposed nursery stakes in varying lengths to hook onto the existing trellis, then return back to the planter for a stable surface to allow plants to trail.  These wires had enough rigidity to span up to 10 feet, and the diameter closely matched the existing trellis structure.

The structure provides an armature for new plantings, which aim to create a mixed evergreen screen that will provide significant coverage of the parking structure when viewed from adjacent areas.  Rather than rely on one type of plant, the design used three different types for additional variety and to also provide different growth characteristics.  The foundation of the design is Clematis armandii (Evergreen Clematis), a hardy evergreen vine that is indigenous to our region.  Each planter has three Clematis to provide a solid foundation.  Alternative varieties of plants complement this foundation, including Akebia quintana (Fiveleaf Akebia) which is a vigorous climber, as seen below.

In addition, we included Gelsenium sempervirens (Carolina Jessamine) which adds some great texture and yellow flower color to the mix.  You can see it below alongside the Clematis.

Finally, the plantings included another vigorous non-native, Holboellia coriacea (China Blue Vine), which should provide a dense covering of evergreen vegetation as well as some sizable purple seed pods for accent.

Rather than rely on one species, the design takes advantage of the diversity of material to provide some resilience if a particular species under-performs, and also provides more variety, texture and color than just using the native Clematis.  Our region is short on quality, native, evergreen climbers, so augment this will non-invasive adapted species provides the opportunity for screening that is functional as well as beautiful.