The Organic Mechanics

This garden was the first stop for my group during the San Francisco Garden Bloggers Fling. I felt a little like I was visiting my parallel life, what my gardening endeavors may have looked like had I moved to San Francisco in the early 2000’s (I came close) instead of Portland, Oregon in 2004. Had I moved I most certainly would have lived in the city, and of course wouldn't have been able to afford land. I would have gardened on my windowsill or balcony, or if I was really lucky somewhere like this...

Our bus pulled up in front of an apartment building and we entered...

After walking down long hallways and narrow staircases we emerged into a small light shaft.

And at the end of the hallway...green!

I think we all breathed a small sigh of relief to see there really was a garden!

This lush, quirky, space is the creation of Sean Stout and James Pettigrew, also known as the Organic Mechanics; a garden design, build and maintenance firm. They share this courtyard garden with the many residents of the multi-story buildings which surround it.

This was a very personal garden, with repurposed elements throughout.

And old, faded, advertising...

Being in an urban courtyard setting their plant choices could push all the boundaries.

I kept finding myself looking up in this garden, more than usual. I think it was knowing I was surrounded by tall buildings, but not quite believing it.

I'm not sure Vicki got a chance to look at the garden as her new friend didn't want to leave her side, err shoulder...

That's either Sean or James, sadly I missed his talk about the garden (to busy gawking and yacking with other "flingers").

This point was sort of a pass-through to the sunnier side of things.

I know what this is, I really do. I just can't remember its name right at the moment. Someone will tell me! The trunk...

And the top!

So perfect...

I do feel a connection to those who garden in containers, whether from necessity or love.

The early morning light fell on the Leucadendron argenteum perfectly.

I took more photos of it than I would have thought possible, you only have to see two.

Of course there were more Leucadendron to see...

And love.

It was Alison who asked if I'd been up to the roof to look down on the garden (I think she noticed I kept looking up).

I hadn't! So she told me how to get there and off I went, just a little concerned the group would leave without me. What a view!

Here's a neighbor who yearns for the outdoors but doesn't have a green thumb, or maybe the landlords permission to garden?

I could see the group was still there so I felt okay hanging out for a few more minutes and imagining "what if..."

Eventually it was time to leave and I spotted the Mechanics truck in front of the building. Here's their info, in case you're in need of their services!

All material © 2009-2013 by Loree Bohl for danger garden. Unauthorized reproduction prohibited.