Through the south doors I observe volunteers happily reaping their harvest from the community vegetable gardens and I contemplate the transformation of this space. I imagine the hustle and bustle of a time past; streetcars coming and going, a landscape of metal tracks and quaint streetcars parked snugly in rows awaiting their next journey.
Young trees pepper the grassy south field, replacing an environment once devoid of nature. I hear an echo of Toronto’s public transportation history in the greening and modernization of the Barns and I think about what these young trees will look like a century from now - how future Torontonians will connect with this space. As I take a look around me I realize that this is a place for growth.
Sustainability is a key component of today’s Wychwood Barns, and in keeping with this theme, LEAF will be hosting a tree mulching event as part of the 100th anniversary of the St. Clair Streetcar and the Wychwood Carhouse. Mulching is a vital part of proper tree care and will help these trees survive into maturity. We'll be using wood chip mulch, and participants will learn proper mulching techniques in order to suppress weeds, conserve water, and add organic matter to the soil. Mulching also provides an insulating blanket to keep the soil warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer and helps protect trees from accidental injuries from lawnmowers.
Did you know the benefits of mulching have been recognized for over 1000 years? This historical practice will help the trees grow strong and healthy into the future. And as the Barns stand as a reminder of the past, these trees represent our time in this space and will provide shade for future generations.
Group mulching is always a lot of fun, and if you’ve never done it before, this is your chance to learn! Join us on Wednesday, September 11 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. to live history! Click here for more information and to register!