Our long-term goal is to restore a multilayered system, not just a few species. The reference site helped define the plant species, habitat, and distribution patterns included in the master plan. In deciding what should be planted where, the first step is a detailed site assessment. Only specialized plants will grow at the edge of the stream, which will be continually very wet. As you move up the bank slope, conditions become dryer and a wider variety of plants can be used.
Soil chemistry is another important factor.
Along the Paper Mill Run, we have very high soil pH which is not suitable for a number of otherwise appropriate regional native plants Controlling nonnative invasive plants is especially critical along stream corridors because the moving water acts like a highway to efficiently convey seeds to new sites downstream. Aggressive invasives can also quickly overrun a newly planted landscape. The Arboretum will monitor the progress of the new landscape and, based on observation and experiment, establish a responsive maintenance regime to ensure the control of invasives and the health of the new riparian buffer. Restoration on display Thousands of Arboretum visitors are expected to pass through the Paper Mill Run demonstration project annually. To enhance their experience, we have designed a full program of education and interpretation.