The Willows Lodge landscape is managed with sustainable practices, with respect for the integrity of the local environment and community. For us, it’s a constantly evolving process. Guests love coming back year after year to see how our gardens progress.

Our Approach

When we began operation in 2000, the five-acre site on the banks of the Sammamish River was managed with a conventional chemical approach. But severe summer drought, loss of plants and poor tree health led us to try something different. In June 2002, we embarked on a program to reduce chemical use and build plant health, championed by EagleSong, our Director of Natural Beauty.

As a first step, our gardeners focused on improving the soil. Every year we now add natural soil amendments, including rock phosphate, lime and compost. Applications of compost tea literally bring the soil to life by contributing millions of soil microbes.

A Holistic Way

Following Integrated Pest Management protocols, our landscape team uses cultural practices that promote health and vitality in the landscape. Before any chemical product is used, every effort is made to manage pests by culture and mechanical intervention. Monitoring and adjusting strategies through changing natural conditions reduces the need for chemical intervention and improves the verdant feel of the landscape.

Weeds at Willows Lodge are managed in various ways. Timely mechanical weeding removes weeds and prevents seed development and germination. A flameweeder reduces unwanted growth in gravel paths. Beds are dressed with compost, wood chips or “arborist mulch” to prevent weed germination and maintain moisture and nutrient cycling in the soil.

Selecting pest-resistant plants suited to the Northwest is another cultural strategy used to reduce pest and disease damage, the need for pesticides, excess water or undue labor.

EagleSong is actively involved in educating guests, students and the general public about the value of a sustainable landscape. The Lodge was the first hotel in the area to be recognized with a 5-Star EnviroStar award and maintains this high standard of excellence today. Partnering with local community college horticulture programs and WSU extension ensures on-site best practices are shared with the greater community.

“By honoring the diversity of a healthy landscape over time, natural balances become re-established.”

EagleSong, Director of Natural Beauty

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