Relocation of the esteemed E.B. Wallace desert-adapted plant collection from the Picket Post holding nursery to its new residence at the Wallace Desert Garden (WDG) within Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
Spanning approximately 12 acres in the southwest sector of the Arboretum, the site was bisected by Queen Creek, featuring diverse landscapes ranging from dense Mesquite Bosques to rugged rock formations and Acacia Greggi forests. The ambitious project involved transplanting over 1800 specimen trees, ranging from 24″ to 84″ box sizes, alongside an array of large cacti and bareroot plants, with meticulous attention given to irrigation integration, soil manipulation, and flood protection measures.
By leveraging heavy machinery, including backhoes and bulldozers, over 2000 tons of onsite soil were carefully managed for backfilling and grading, ensuring optimal flood resilience and water drainage. Innovative water harvesting techniques were incorporated, particularly along hillside trails and Queen Creek, while the project also encompassed the installation of shade structures, sculptures, and a solar-powered water seep. Notably, sustainability was paramount throughout, with practices ranging from repurposing wooden mulch to crafting artistic spheres from boxing materials.
