Venice Guerrilla Gardeners


 Planting and Beautification of Electric Ave & California in Abbott Kinney—

Electric Ave and California Ave is the main entrance into the heart of Abbott Kinney, Venice. It is what everyone sees as they arrive to this fun and hip spot of LA.  I’ve been part of the Venice community for over 20 years and I’ve lived on Electric Ave for over 15.  During this time, I’ve watched the landscaping on the SE and NE corners degrade from neglect.  From the lack of turning the soil, to foot traffic compacting it further, as well as the garbage that has been repeatedly dumped there, the area became a dirt and trash garden.  It was disheartening to see this area in such bad shape.  My feeling is that if I gave the land some love and respect then maybe others will too.  So, instead of complaining, I decided to do something about it. 
I planted a garden!
 
In mid January, I began this project and the pictures reflect what I have done up untill today, May 15th.  The day before breaking ground, I went to a nursery and bought dozens and dozens of succulents, as they're beautiful and are low water plants.  That way, they will survive the long dry summer and fall.  I also bought soil amendments to prepare the soil, keep it loose and give it good drainage.  This keeps the plants happy and supports the roots to grow well.  Then I grabbed some shovels and my helper, Igor, and began turning the soil. 
 
Because most California soil is clay like, it gets compacted easily.  When dry, it can feel like a rock, which plants (especially succulents) don’t like as it prevents the roots from growing and doesn’t allow the water to drain in wet weather.   Turning the soil involves digging 2 feet down, chopping the soil with a shovel to loosen and break up the hard chunks, pouring in amendments like pearlite & cactus mix soil and mixing it all together by shoveling and turning over the soil till it mixes evenly.  It is the most difficult yet the most important step to make sure the plants have a good growing environment.  The planting is the easy part, especially if the soil is loose and soft.  Lastly, I bought and bordered the busiest corners with granite stones.  This protects the plants form foot traffic, bikes and scooters. 
 
It’s important to note that I am not a gardener or landscaper by trade and I am not offering gardening services.  I am a holistic health practitioner and an entrepreneur in the health and wellness industry. Gardening is a hobby and this was a passion project.  I was so passionate about beautifying the area that I felt it was worth putting in the work and spending the money. Though I have no regrets and am enjoying the fruits of my labor, the cost has set me back. 
 
I am asking for donations for two reasons.  1. To recoup the cash I have spent on plants, rocks, soil amendments, and paying my helper Igor.  In all, I’ve spent well over $6,800 from my own pocket to do what I’ve done so far. 2. I would love to be able to continue. Whatever additional money I receive will continue the project along Electric Ave in both directions from California.  You can see in some of the pics where the work stopped.  (I’m not expecting any money for myself, for my labor.  The 200 plus hours of work is my donation and contribution to our neighborhood.)
 
Any donation, at any level would be greatly appreciated. If you have the same passion and desire to beautify Venice, please contribute whatever you can.  For any large donations of $2,500 or more, I will consider requests for a particular area in Venice.

Thank You,
Sammy Khorchid