Below is a checklist for assessing conditions for planting. These criteria should be considered before selecting plantings and rather than heavily amending soils and changing grading, plantings should aim to match the site conditions to not disturb soils. Even challenging site conditions (e.g. waterlogged soils with a high water table) can host a diverse range of plants.
⇒ What are my soil conditions?
Take a sample of the soil. For a quick test, see ‘Below-ground‘ conditions. Determine texture and associated conditions for drainage and cation-exchange capacity. Conduct a quick test to determine pH and the presence of essential nutrients including Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) using an at-home kit. If pollutants are a concern, send a sample for testing. Determine if the soil is native soil, amended fill, or a mix of both. Assess the presence of microorganisms, mycelium or visible fruiting bodies of fungi, and organic matter as an indicator of nutrient cycling for healthy soils.
⇒ Where does water drain?
Determine the water holding capacity and drainage potential considering the soil. Are there micro-zones where water might pool on the site? Are there nearby drains or subsurface drains? What is the approximate slope of the site? Obtain a grading plan if possible or conduct quick slope estimations using a measuring tape.
⇒ Are there above-ground restrictions that limit the height of plantings?
Assess the condition of physical impediments including powerlines, clearances from buildings, access points including entrance ways and paths, future proposed development, and signs. If assessing private property, consider the relationship between any City-managed trees in the boulevard and their relative mature spread.
⇒ Are there below-ground restrictions that limit plantings?
Determine underground utilities by requesting a location map from the municipality or local providers. Consider the proximity of storm drains or if any slab conditions (e.g. underground parkades) may limit soil volumes. Estimate the volume of soil available in square meters to determine the size of the planting.
⇒ What is currently growing?
Take inventory of plants growing on site (planted or growing naturally) – what can they tell you about the site? For example, the presence of a Juglans species (black walnut tree) will indicate poor growing conditions for understory plants. What is the health of the plantings? Are there any indicators of stress? Example: You come across a fern with yellow fronds, indicative of too bright conditions.
⇒ Where is the sun?
Determine sun conditions year-round by either conducting a technical sun study using a program such as Grasshopper or ArcGIS OR do a quick sun study by determining orientation and considering adjacent buildings and vegetation. Will there be any future development that will change sun conditions in the near future?