The North Carolina State Capitol is one of our most visited and recognized landmarks.
But lately, the landscaping around the building has been looking a little rough.
Record heat, drought and other factors have taken a heavy toll on the shrubs and plants surrounding the Capitol, a 170-year-old landmark that houses the governor’s office.
Everybody wants the Capitol to look attractive, but in this economy, Gov. Bev Perdue is looking for ways to save money.
Members of the N.C. Nursery & Landscape Association came to the rescue with a generous donation of more than 600 plants and 20 cubic yards of compost as well as design services. Visitors to the Capitol will see on each corner of the building new plants including dwarf yaupon holly, green mountain boxwood and dwarf hydrangea.
To add a splash of color to the design, the shrubs will be accented by bed of annuals, starting with pansies.
A hedge of dwarf yaupon holly is a smart choice. The plants will look great. But they will also be resistant to drought and disease. Likewise the hydrangea and boxwood will also be able to survive even if there’s less water.
And the plants are going in the ground at just the right time. Plants put in the ground in the fall need less water to take root and will be healthier and heartier in the coming months. Gov. Perdue has signed a proclamation reminding state residents that "Fall is for Planting."
Pictured: Gov. Perdue signs a proclamation noting fall is the best time for planting. She is surrounded by members of the N.C. Nursery & Landscape Association who donated plants and landscape services to the State Capitol.
