Kristine Morris

Member since June 28, 2023

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Kristine Morris1 year ago Let’s plant a wisteria that blooms!BackgroundThe trellis at the northeast plaza entry (Adelaide and Jarvis) was installed in the early 1980s as part of the St. James Park revitalization—one component of a broader renewal initiative in the St. Lawrence neighbourhood. It was designed by The Urban Group, the planning and development division of the City of Toronto at the time, led by Ken Greenberg.Archival images show that the trellis has at times been partially covered by a climbing vine plant (perhaps clematis) or left bare. It’s unclear when the existing wisteria vine was planted, and while it provides a leafy green canopy, it has never produced flowers. As seen in the photo from summer 2025, the foliage blends into the surrounding trees, rendering the trellis nearly invisible. We believe this custom-designed trellis deserves to be highlighted by a wisteria that blooms—bringing beauty, contrast, and renewed attention to this original park feature.Proposal & Estimate CostWe propose replacing the current vines with new blooming American Wisteria (W. Furtescens), a North American native species.The general price range for a 1-year-old American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens) plant is approximately:· $15 to $30 CAD/USD for a small potted plant (typically 4-inch to 1-gallon pot size)· $30 to $50 for a more established 1-gallon or 2-gallon plant, depending on nursery quality, cultivar, and region.Humber Nurseries quotes CA$42.00 for the 2 gallon Wisteria Summer Cascade. Two website sources cite CA$51.61 and CA$47.50.The City gardeners would be best qualified to determine the number of plants required; however, it is suggested that, for a 10 foot arched trellis like this one, typically one would plant 2 wisteria vines—one at each end—to achieve full coverage over time. Wisteria (especially American and Kentucky varieties) are vigorous growers once established and can easily span 5–10 feet or more in either direction. Planting one on each side of the arch allows them to grow up and over toward the center, meeting at the top and creating a balanced, lush display. Planting more than two can lead to overcrowding, increased pruning needs, and competition for nutrients.For the purposes of this estimate, we’ve included 2-6 plants in case it is decided to plant one at each corner of the trellis (and based on the number of rooted plants on the existing trellis). Total Estimated Cost2-6 American Wisteria at approximately CA$50 each = $100-300. (Depending on how the city sources this type of plant, there may be additional delivery costs). ConclusionFor a modest investment, the trellis can be brought back to life with the planting of a blooming wisteria, fulfilling its original design intent. The vine would transform the trellis from the existing green canopy that blends into the rest of the greenery into a living landmark, draping it with cascading clusters of fragrant lilac blossoms each spring. It would tie in with the charm of the traditional Victorian inspired garden at the south end of the park along King Street and it would also create an irresistible backdrop for visitor pictures and Instagram-worthy moments alike.

Kristine Morris3 years ago This idea looks at purchasing 5 cafe tables, 2 chairs each (10 chairs) for the plaza in St. James Park. Parks, Forestry, and Recreation staff have reviewed this idea and estimate that further investigation would be required. $15,000-$20,000.Internal ID: PFR-9 *Note: Ideas that proceed to the voting stage are edited by my office to ensure they are clear, concise, and is complete with images. For accountability and transparency purposes, the original description, as input by the resident, can be found below.Original Description:Please consider purchasing 5 café tables, each with 2 chairs (10 chairs) for the plaza in St. James Park, to match the popular ones in Berczy Park and those that are part of the Market Lane Park design. This will unify the network of parks in the neighbourhood and provide additional seating in the plaza area conducive to eating/snaking.Estimate cost (info from BIA): $1000/table, $800/chair for a total of $13,000.See attached map indicating where the seating will be placed. They would be locked with cord attached to nearby benches which are secured to the ground.Note: This is one idea which can be scoped in a range of cost brackets, with associated investments ranging from large to very significant. It is hoped that there will be ongoing dialogue with the Councillor’s office to qualify and shape this idea further as design and cost input is received from staff experts at the City, and prior to it being submitted for voting.