Two Hands and a Shovel: A Series

My friend, Henry, recently purchased a house in San Bruno, a suburban community just south of San Francisco. Located just minutes from San Francisco International Airport, the property sits on fill as the city expanded into San Francisco Bay. As such, the property is in an area with a high water table and requires a constantly running sump pump. These wetland-like conditions, while challenging, are not all disadvantageous. The soil is rich, with a good balance of sand, silt, and clay. The proportions are conducive to good drainage, yet will promote nutrient retention. Combine these soil characteristics with the area's warm Mediterranean climate - think San Francisco's SE neighborhoods - and you have a fertile plot the envy of one certain San Franciscan.



Next up: Initial site assessment. Existing conditions.