11

1

11-1

Chapter 11___________________________________________________________________

Landscape DesignPaul C. Siciliano Jr.

Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Purdue UniversityGraphics By: Matthew Gaynor, Purdue University

Learning Objectives

• Understand the Benefits of Professional Design• Understand the Series of Steps Involved in the Landscape Design Process

Customer Contract/InterviewBase SheetSite Inventory and AnalysisProgramming/Functional DiagramsPreliminary Design/Conceptual DesignMaster Plan

• Gain an Appreciation for Landscape Design FundamentalsGraphics and Drafting TechniquesPrinciples of Landscape DesignPlanting Design Fundamentals

• Understand the Impact of Landscape Design on Landscape Maintenance• Recognize the Qualities of Successful Landscape Design

Introduction

This chapter deals with landscape design. Itwill review the importance of professionallandscape design, outline the landscape designprocess (the procedure for preparing a landscapedesign solution) and discuss the fundamentals ofa successful landscape design. This is only abrief overview and is not intended to prepare youfor professional practice in design. It is, rather, abrief survey to give you a basic understanding ofthe terminology, process, and characteristics ofdesign so that you are better able to collaboratewith professional designers. Moreover, as aprofessional landscape contractor with anappreciation for design, you will be better able toconstruct and maintain designed landscapes.

What is Landscape Design?

Landscape design is the art of creating afunctional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor

environment for human use. It is the process ofidentifying the opportunities and constraints of asite, taking advantage of the opportunities,solving problems, and mitigating conflicts bycreating workable solutions.

Residential landscape designers consider theoutdoor environment an extension of the home.They seek to create a series of outdoor rooms asspaces for recreation, relaxation andentertainment. A successful landscape design isaccomplished through a series of important steps,each an important part of an overall designprocess. Working through this process requiresan understanding of design principles, as well asa fair amount of creativity. Ideas are presentedthrough drawings which require the designer tobe competent in drawing and/or in computeraided design graphics. Additional skills requiredof the professional working through the designprocess include a knowledge of naturalenvironmental factors that can effect designdecisions such as soil conditions, wind, sun, and

Acknowledgement is made of Gregory Pierceall who originally developed this publication.

11-2

precipitation. The designer must also have anunderstanding of “hard” materials like wood,stone, brick, asphalt and concrete. In terms ofplant material the designer must not only befamiliar with the aesthetic characteristics of theplants such as their size, form, texture, color, andseasonal interest like flowering and fruiting, butalso the cultural requirements of plants (sun,water, and soil requirements).

Both landscape architects and professionallytrained landscape designers are typically thepeople preparing residential landscape designs. Itis important that individuals recognize the limitof their abilities, and seek out assistance fromthose with more experience in particular areas.Many of the most successful landscape projectshave been accomplished through the successfulcollaboration of professionals in a number ofspecialty areas in the Green Industry – LandscapeArchitects, Landscape Contractors, andNurserypersons.

Benefits of Professional Design:

A successfully designed landscape can solveor mitigate functional problems or constraints onsites such as bad views and lack of privacy. Awell designed landscape can also enhance thedesign of the home and extend the availableliving space by providing an outdoor livingenvironment. These benefits are not onlyimprovements on ones quality of life, but also onthe value of the property.

The Landscape Design Process

The design process is a series of steps todevelop a complete landscape design proposal.The ultimate goal is generally to prepare a masterplan that shows your client a complete designproposal for the entire site. Although manyclients may not choose to develop their entire siteat once, an overall design will enable them toplan the development based on their personal orbudgetary requirements and goals. The masterplan shows how the various parts of the designrelate to one another and discourages randomapproaches to developing ones property.

For most people, their home is a majorfinancial investment. As such, it merits the most

attractive as well as functional setting you canprovide. The key to creating this setting is properplanning. When you plan on paper, you are ableto look at all the parts of your homesite as agroup of interrelated living areas. Planning thewhole site enables you to take advantage ofdesign opportunities and identify potentialproblems. And, through this approach tolandscape planning, you can truly personalizeyour surroundings.

Beginning Considerations:

The best landscape for any home reflects thepersonalities of the homeowners and emphasizesthe desirable characteristics of the site. Just asthe indoors of a home is arranged functionallyand reflects personal tastes, the outdoorlandscape can also be functional and reflective ofpersonal tastes.

The following chart shows the steps whichshould be followed when preparing yourlandscape design plan.

33

3

11-3

The Landscape Design Process:A Step by Step Guide

Base Sheet Preparation:

The first step of the design process is toobtain a “base plan” locating the house, theproperty line, and existing site features such astrees, walkways, fences and terraces. Generallythe homeowner will have a detailed plot plan thatwas created by an engineer. This document isusually produced or acquired upon the purchaseof a home. When this information is not avail-able it is up to the designer to take measurementsof the site in order to prepare a scaled base plan.For the average residential site (approximatelyone acre or less) the recommended scale forconstructing a base plan is 1”=10’ or 1/8”=1’. Abase plan must be scaled. This drawing willserve as the base sheet upon which a design canbe generated.

Client Interview:

The designer must meet with the client todiscuss the client’s needs, desires, and interests inorder to prepare a design program. The designermust distinguish how the client intends to use thesite (interests for recreation, gardening, and otheractivities) as well as the client’s personal likes ordislikes. Does the client have any favorite plantsor conversely any plants that they particularlydon’t like? Designers must understand theclient’s outdoor entertainment needs, if any, andalso the extent to which they intend to “use” theoutdoor amenities that may be proposed. Arethey “outdoor” or “inside” folks. Anotherquestion that is often a difficult one to both askand answer is how much the client wants tospend, what is their budget? Many clients don’thave a very strong appreciation for the costsassociated with landscape improvements, so a“budget” proposal prepared by the designer andincluded as part of a design is often very helpful.

Developing a Design Program:

Use the following checklist to stimulate yourthinking as you begin to question your clientabout the different ways that they may use the

outdoor property. Answer the questions andmake additional notations that pertain to yourspecific situation.

Family Inventory Checklist:

General• List family members.• How old are they?• What are their outdoor hobbies?

General Gardening• How much time and energy does the client want to commit to landscape maintenance (hours per day, days per week)?• Would the client like to have hobby or specialty gardens (vegetables, flowers, herbs)? List them.• Would the client like to have container plants or planter boxes? Describe them.• What are some of your client’s favorite plants (trees, shrubs, flowers)? List them.• Does your client need a compost pile? What about using cold frames or constructing a greenhouse?

Private Area:

Entertaining• What type of entertaining does your client do (formal, informal)?• What size groups do they entertain?• How often does your client entertain?• Do they want a terrace, patio, or deck?• Do they prefer a specific paving material (brick, flagstone, redwood)?• Do they prefer built-in seating such as benches and planter walls or movable tables and chairs?• Do they do outdoor cooking?• Do they prefer a permanent grill or a portable grill?

Shelter/Shade Requirements• Where would shade be preferred? Required?• Is privacy fencing or screening required?• Is overhead shelter desirable?

11-4

Recreation• Is there need for space for lawn games?

How large an area?• Are paved surfaces desired for games?• Is area lighting necessary?• What structures are desired for children’s

play (swings, sandbox)?• What surfaces are desired for children’s play

(sand, gravel, woodchips, grass)?

• Is safety fencing required?

Swimming Pool/Hot Tub• Does your client want a pool or hot tub?• If they answer yes, what size is necessary?• Will the surrounding terrace/deck be

adequate for sunning?• Where will the pump and other pool

equipment be stored?• What are the legal requirements? Liability

considerations?

General Features• Is there adequate lighting (landscape, utility,

safety)?• Do you want to include plants and other

features which attract birds or other wildlife?• Are hose connections and electrical outlets

accessible?

Public Area• Is the driveway visible and large enough? Is

the layout convenient?• Is there enough parking for the family? What

about visitors?• Is the entrance inviting? Is it easily

identified?• Is there sufficient privacy where desired?

Service Area• What types of service do you need room for

(work on mower, store boat, etc.)?• Is there sufficient room for additional vehicle

storage?• Are lawn and garden supplies stored

conveniently?• Is trash collection conveniently located? Is it

adequately screened?• Are your pets adequately housed? Are they

safely fenced?

Review this family inventory checklistseveral times and record all your answers. Yourcompleted list of uses and functions is a DesignProgram. It is one of three essential types ofinformation necessary for good planning and willbe used as the basis for developing your designplan.

Site Inventory:

The physical characteristics of the land willinfluence and perhaps determine your landscapedesign. Make on-site observations to obtainbasic information about the quality of theproperty (a site inventory). And remember, yoursite need not end with its property boundaries.Think of the site as one part of a larger area.Considering the area beyond the boundaries, asthe extended landscape, will help you understandthe relationship of your land to surroundingproperties. Now you must perform a site analysis.

Site Analysis:

A site analysis is the next step of the designprocess, which may be accomplished concurrentto the preparation of the base plan. The purposeof this step is to familiarize the designer with theopportunities and constraints existing on a site.During this step the designer considers views,soil conditions including drainage, the conditionand value of existing vegetation, sun angles,shade angles, shady areas, and wind direction.The designer should also check on the location ofutilities and access to the site (equipment accessmight be required) as well as water spigots. Thedesigner should also confirm the location ofdoors and windows or mark these on the plan ifno scaled elevations of the home are available tolocate doors and windows.

Site Inventory/Analysis Checklist:

Use the following checklist as you carefullyexamine the site:

55

5

11-5

Natural Features/Topography• Is the property hilly? fairly level? flat?• Determine the location of the highest and lowest elevations on the property.• What are the elevations of the land relative to its surroundings?• Are there bodies of water which you may need to consider?• Are there signs of erosion that may need attention?• Are there restrictively steep slopes (too steep to comfortably walk, too steep to play games)?

Water• Does water drain away from the house and other structures?• Does water stand on the surface in any area?• Is there runoff water from neighboring property or onto neighboring property?

• Are there signs of water erosion?

Soil• Identify the soil’s basic structure (clay, loam, sand, etc.)• Is the soil acid or alkaline?• What is the condition of the topsoil?• What is the depth of the topsoil?

Existing Vegetation• What is the condition of the lawn?• What is the general quality of the plant materials?• Are there trees which you may want to feature or remove?• Are there native plant materials which you can identify?• Identify the trees and shrubs by name.

Macro-climate (general climate conditions of aparticular part of the state)• What are the temperature extremes of the area?• In what USDA plant hardiness zone is your site located?• What is the direction of prevailing winds in summer? In winter?• What is the annual precipitation rate?• Is additional watering often necessary?• What is the humidity level in the area?

Micro-climate (client conditions specific to yourproperty)• Are there parts of the site where excessive wind is a problem?• Are there areas that are consistently wet or dry?• Are there areas which are consistently in the shade?• Are there areas which are consistently in the sun?• Are there frost pockets?

Identify the location of each of the aboveconditions.

Structures• Locate and describe the condition of all existing structures (e.g. storage sheds, sprinkler heads, etc.)• What construction materials have been used?• Locate and describe the condition of all walks and drives.• Locate and identify overhead utilities and meters.• Locate and identify all underground utilities and meters.

Extensional Landscape• Do you want to change the views from and onto the property?• Locate the views you would like to feature.• Locate the views you would like to screen.• Are noises and odors from surrounding land a problem anywhere on the property?• What kind of privacy is offered?• Locate utility easements and public right-of- ways that are on the property.

Developing a Site Analysis:

Now transform your site inventory checklistinformation into graphic form, a site analysis. Tomake a site analysis graphic, start with yourprepared site drawing and use it as a base sheet.Overlay the base sheet with a piece of tracingpaper. Transfer the site inventory information tothis top sheet using graphic symbols and writtennotes to convey all the information. Locate alladditional structures, vegetation, topographicfeatures, views, and any other informationgathered during your site inventory.

11-6

Functional Diagrams/Programming:

The next step of the design process is tobegin to organize the design of the site byidentifying areas that will accommodate yourintended design program (the program has beenaccomplished through the joint meetings anddecisions reached between designer and client).This next step is a programming exercise. It isthe first attempt at organizing a design on thesite. Major uses and elements of the design aresuggested in various areas of the site on a seriesof options (overlays). Lawn areas, terraces,walkways, planting, screening requirements,buffers, possible areas for visual focus are allconsidered in this stage of design. The graphicsare generally proportional to the site, but veryschematic, often appearing as “bubble drawings”and notes.

Make several comparison studies to explorealternative activity locations. Be prepared tomodify your site plan to accommodate anyconflicts which arise between your presentlandscape and your projected landscape. Be sureto review your checklists and to include all

activities. Evaluate these comparison studies andmake modifications until you arrive at a solutionwhich provides for the best use of the site andaccommodates the activities you desire.

Summary

You should now have a clear understandingof how the site might best be developed. Youhave carefully considered and recorded all theactivities that the client would like to haveincluded. The property has been inventoried, itsconditions observed and recorded. You haveconsidered a variety of optimum locations for thevarious use areas which will be on your site. Asa result you have succeeded in finding the best fitbetween the clients interests, and the existingfeatures of the property.

The diagram you have produced will be thebasis for future, more specific design decisions.At that time structural dimensions will bedetermined, construction materials will bechosen, plant materials will be selected, and yourplans will be revised and refined.

77

7

11-7

Base Map.

11-8

Site inventory and analysis.

99

9

11-9

Functional diagram.

11-10

Developing a Landscape Design

Once you have analyzed the site and

considered your client’s program (desires,

interests, and needs) and performed several

alternative planning studies (functional

diagrams) you can move forward to refine those

studies, developing them now to fit the site.

Refining Preliminary Design Studies:

Now that you have made some comparisonbubble diagram studies to explore alternativeactivity locations based on your design programand your site analysis you can begin to developsome design concepts for your site. Theinformation that you laid out in your functional/bubble diagrams will:• help you visualize the location of activities.

• help you evaluate optional locations in

relation to existing site conditions.

• help you determine (in general terms) the

amount of space needed for each activity.

• help you determine conflicts which may

arise by having incompatible activities next

to each other.

• help you draw alternative studies in a quick

manner.

Select the diagram which best fulfills yourprogram needs and makes the best possible useof the existing site conditions. It should alsoprovide the least amount of conflict betweenactivities.

Now consider just how functional your

arrangement of activities is. Think in terms of

moving through your site plan, walking to and

from the house, and moving into and out of the

various activity areas. As you imagine yourself

moving about on your property, you will be

establishing paths and proposing circulation

routes.

Place another piece of tracing paper on topof your bubble diagram and draw the pathspeople will follow in order to get from oneactivity area to another. Also show doorwaysand consider movement into and out of the houseand other buildings. Draw these paths on yourplan using bold lines to show heavily traveled

circulation routes and lighter lines for minorcirculation routes. Try to eliminate conflicts,such as having children cut across a garden to getto a play area. Eliminating conflicts at this stageis an important step in refining your designstudies. These proposed circulation routes willbe places where you will consider providingpaths, sidewalks, or other paved surfaces.

Generating alternative studies and evaluatingthe function of each is a very important step indesign. This is a time when options can bediscarded with little effort and decisions can bequickly made and drawn.

Preliminary Design:

After the designer is satisfied with the

arrangement of the programmed areas, he or she

begins to study possible design solutions. The

designer generally establishes a theme and

begins to work with form composition – studying

possible shapes and forms for the different areas

of the site. The conceptual or preliminary design

should include existing and proposed grade

changes and an idea for the size of proposed

areas. A general idea of planted areas with initial

suggestions for shade and ornamental trees,

flowering and evergreen shrubs and hedges, and

herbaceous materials should be delineated. Also,

areas to accommodate site amenities (pools, hot

tubs, greenhouses, sheds, etc.) should be

considered. These preliminary designs should be

reviewed with the client in order to obtain their

feedback before proceeding to the next step in the

design process.

Selecting a Theme:

In selecting your overall theme, firstdetermine the character of your house and site.A very wooded, hilly site has a naturalisticcharacter. This can be reflected in the house andthe landscape design. A house with some verydynamic angles might be reflected in a landscapedesign with an angular theme. If your house isset on a standard rectangular lot, then a linear orrectilinear theme is probably the easiest to workwith. It involves using straight lines and edgesusually parallel or perpendicular to your house.

1111

11

11-11

A good way to visualize a theme is to work

with your plan view diagram and extend all the

lines of your house and property. Extend straight

lines at each wall ending, window and door edge,

sidewalk and porch or patio edge. Drawing these

lines on tracing paper atop a grid pattern will

help you see the lines in modular units. Study

the lines to discover some patterns taking form.

The bubble diagrams completed earlier canbe overlaid for comparison and lines can beselected which fit the property and also divideareas as desired. If the extended lines repeat the

lines of architecture and property boundariesthey will result in a natural blend of basic forms.This will establish your theme.

You may want to experiment with severalthemes. Remember you are still planning onpaper so it is easy to correct mistakes or makechanges. However, once installed, the mistakesyou make in your landscape are costly to corrector must be lived with. Selecting the basic formsof your design theme is an important step infinalizing your landscape design plan.

11-12

A combination of rectangular and arc/tangent design themes for the Arlington Heights residence.

1313

13

11-13

A curvilinear design theme for the Arlington Heights residence.

11-14

A rectangular design theme for the Arlington Heights residence.

1515

15

11-15

Determining Size and Space

Requirements:

Each activity area which you have chosen toinclude in your design plan will require a certainamount of space. You have indicated theseactivity areas with circular, bubble-like shapes,designating their general location and size. Nowyou need to establish the exact location andboundaries of each of these activity areas. To dothis, consider in detail how you intend each ofthese areas to be used. The number of peoplethat will use each area also gives a goodindication of how large it should be. Forexample, if you have designated a general playarea, the kind of play that will take place in thatarea may determine its size. Do you want it tobe an open lawn area, large enough for croquet;or do you want it to be a paved area for wagonsand tricycles? If the play area is to include aplay structure, then determine the size of thatstructure. Make sure that the shapes and formsyou are creating are in keeping with yourpreviously established theme.

Another outdoor space which you mighthave designated in your bubble diagrams is thatof a patio. A patio is usually surfaced andlocated close to the house. To be adequate insize your patio should have between 75 and 80square feet of surface area for each person. Acommon tendency is to build the area too smallfor heavy outdoor use. When thinking of size,the relation of the patio to the total outdoor living

area should also be considered. Determine howyou want to use your patio, then draw the sizeand shape of the area on your plan.

Examine the other use areas you have

previously indicated with bubbles on your

preliminary plans. Determine how each will be

used and draw that space with its edges and

boundaries on your design plan.

The Master Plan:

The final step of the design process is toproduce the Master Plan. This may be fairlysimilar to the preliminary design if that wasacceptable to your client, but the Master Plan isdrawn in more detail. The Master Plan shows allareas in exact dimensions, specifying allmaterials, both hardscape and plant materials tobe used. A copy, either rendered or not, ispresented to the client. A plant schedule listingmaterials proposed is included on the plan, aswell as any landscape notes required to make theplan clear to those installing the work. In largerdesign projects, the process would proceed fromthis stage to construction documents, which aremeasured and detailed drawings of the designproposal as well as specific construction detailsof constructed features proposed. Specificationsoutlining specific product requirements andmethods for installation would accompany theconstruction drawings.

11-16

Master plan for the Arlington Heights residence.

1717

17

11-17

The Constructed Landscape: Walls,

Walks, Terraces and Overhead

Structures:

The creation of functional use areas isachieved not only by allowing enough space forthe activities but also by the addition of land-scape structures. Some potential landscapestructures you may wish to consider includesurface structures, such as decks; overheadstructures, such as a pergola or arbor; andenclosure structures, such as walls or fences.These should be selected to allow you to carryout the activities that you desire.

Retaining Walls:

The more use by people that a particular areawill get, the more level that surface should be.Achieving areas of level ground may in somecircumstances require grading. Grading is thechanging of existing elevations of land by eithercutting, taking away soil, or filling, bringing insoil. Sometimes changes in elevation betweenlevel areas are achieved through the use ofgrading structures, such as retaining walls. Thefunction of a retaining wall is to hold soil inplace between differing elevations of the ground.

The type of wall constructed depends on the

amount and type of soil being retained. Severe

soil pressures require substantial walls with

sturdy foundations.

Materials used in retaining walls must beable to tolerate direct contact with soil andmoisture. A retaining wall should be consideredan architectural unit, designed with a foundation,and constructed of materials that will blend withother architectural units.

You should be aware that changing soilelevations around existing plantings is verylikely to harm the plants. This is true for bothcutting and filling.

Freestanding Walls:

When you enclose a particular activity areayou have an opportunity to set that space asideand away from everything else. Enclosurestructures are vertical elements such as fencesand walls that help define and enclose spaces.These structures can be made of many differentkinds of materials and can be constructed indifferent sizes for different purposes.

A low wall may function as a seat, if it isapproximately 18 inches in height. This type ofwall, while it interrupts movement, does notblock vision. A taller wall on the other hand,may obstruct movement as well as vision.

Walls are sometimes used along a propertyline to mark boundaries. Walls can also be usedto enclose areas for privacy. The mass and formcreated by the wall must be considered in your

Dry stone wall

Concrete wall

While retaining walls can serve as distinctive design elements,

considerable strength is required of them to hold the weight of

soil and to withstand hydrostatic pressure.

weep hole

gravel

backfill

cut

Moving earth and reforming land may help make areas more

useful. When grading to create level areas try to balance cut

and fill quantities.

fill

finished grade

original grade

11-18

design. Some materials that are used for wallswould include brick, stone, concrete, andconcrete blocks. Strive to maintain goodproportion when designing a wall so that it lookslike it fits in with the surrounding area.

Fences also serve many different purposes.A fence might be used to create a shelteringwindbreak, or it might be used as a backgroundto the major portion of the yard. The decision ofwhen and where to fence should be made withrespect to the intended function.

Materials used in the construction of

enclosure structures should relate to the other

building materials used throughout your

landscape design. Consider scale, texture, and

color. Walls and fences sometimes work to

extend the house walls into the outdoor area, and

if this is the case, they should be constructed of

materials similar to those used in the house.

Walkways and Driveways:

Circulation structures for cars may consist ofpaved driveways, which usually require astraight and direct approach and a parking areas.Make sure the driveway is sufficiently wide.While a width of ten feet provides room for a car,you may want additional paving for people touse when walking around the car.

Driveway surfaces can be of a variety of

materials. Some potential materials include

cinders, crushed limestone, gravel, concrete,

asphalt, brick, and grass pavers. When selecting

a construction material for a driveway, consider

durability and permanence as well as ease of

maintenance. Also consider the expense of

installation and the appearance of the material.

Circulation structures for people areintended to provide physical access to thedifferent use areas. A walk can help unify alandscape design by connecting different spaces,but a walk can also create a division betweenspaces. If a walkway is a major circulation routeand intended for frequent use, then it should bethe shortest distance between two points.Secondary walks are those other than entranceapproaches and they provide access to thelandscape for pleasure as well as utility.

Shape is important in walkway design. Themost pleasing walk will move along with agentle curve. Straight walks are probably best insmall yards where there is no room for sweepingcurves. Some materials that might be used forpedestrian circulation are brick and flagstonepavers, poured concrete, precast concrete pavers,or asphalt. Whatever the material used, thesurface should be subdued in color and have atexture that is both pleasing and functional forthe users.

Low enclosure walls provide seating. Intermediate enclosure

structures block movement but not vision. Tall enclosure

structures block both movement and vision.

Pavers (Basket weave pattern)

Pavers (Running bond pattern)

Stone (Organic shapes)

Stone (Rectangular shapes) Gravel

Stone (Geometric shapes)

Pavers (Herringbone pattern) Stone (Rounded shapes)

1919

19

11-19

Ramps and steps are used to connectdifferent walkway levels. In designing steps thetotal height of a group of steps should not begreater than its width. Use landings to breaksteps into sections as well as to indicate a changeof direction. In the design of steps, care needs tobe taken to provide appropriate tread to riserrelationships.

Terraces and Decks:

Surface structures are intended to make aparticular activity area more usable. Examplesare a patio, deck, or game court. All surfacestructures function as a part of the floor of yourlandscape design. Some surface structures suchas a patio may also function as a focal point ofthe design.

The materials selected will depend on howthe surface is to be used. Brick is frequentlyused as a surface material and is very workableas well as attractive. Using brick pavers canresult in a pleasing surface texture and variety inpattern. Flagstone is another material that isoften used, and is appealing because of thesubdued colors in which it is available.Flagstone is a durable material with aninteresting texture.

Because of the fluid characteristics ofconcrete it can be used as a surface material andformed to take a variety of shapes. The surfaceof concrete can be textured for interest andsafety.

With surface structures, particularly wherethe initial costs are high, a design must becarefully laid out. The edges must be clearly

defined; the size of the units must be known; andthe pattern must be determined. All of this canbe done on paper so that costly mistakes can beavoided.

A wooden surface functions well for many

activities and blends well with many other

construction materials. A deck is a wooden

surface structure built just off the ground or at an

elevated height. A deck can effectively provide

access from the house by serving as an extension

of an interior house floor. Old paving can be

covered by building a wooden deck over it.

Overhead Structures:

Overhead structures are also used to enclosean area. They are especially effective forextending indoor use areas into the outdoors,such as an eating area adjacent to the kitchen.Overhead structures establish a connectionbetween the house and the landscape in a mannerwhich is difficult to achieve in any other way.They can also provide shade or shelter from rain.

An overhead structure does not have to be asolid roof to provide a sense of enclosure. It canbe partially open, and the amount of openness orsolid roof area will determine the amount ofprotection or climate control that you achieve.

Wood is often used to construct an overhead

structure such as a pergola or arbor. It is

Arbors help define unique thresholds between outdoor areas or

rooms and can give the landscape an interesting architectural

feature.

Outdoor steps should have a wide tread and low riser so they are

spread horizontally as much as possible. Use a maximum 6-

inch riser and a minimum 12-inch tread.

riser

tread

11-20

relatively easy to work with and lightweight.

Canvas fabric is another material which might be

used to provide shade. The choice you make

should depend on the particular functional need

being met.

Landscape structures are intended to increasethe functional use given to an outdoor area.Since they may involve a large outlay in bothtime and money, their placement and designshould be carefully planned. Before anyconstruction is started, check on zoningordinances, setbacks, easements and other legalrequirements.

When selecting construction materials, firstevaluate how well the material will function inthe particular area where you intend to use it.Will it allow the kind of activities to take placewhich you have intended? How well does itrelate in line, form, color, and texture to theproposed and existing materials around it? Also,consider durability and wear of constructionmaterials as well as ease of maintenance.

The Planted Landscape:

A very important part of your landscape

design is the selection of plant materials. Plants

are chosen only after the total environment has

been analyzed. By then you should have

knowledge of the soil, temperature, water, light,

and wind conditions on your property. Initially

you should choose plant materials that grow well

in those conditions. If you ignore a plant’s

natural preference for certain living conditions,

you will have to work harder to keep it healthy.

Plant materials are selected for the purposeor function which they will serve in thelandscape. Some potential functions are tocreate shade, to screen one area from another orto create a barrier or a boundary. Plant materialsmight also be chosen to control erosion or tomodify the climate around your house. It isimportant to understand the individual plants’needs and requirements as well as the functionalqualities desired before selecting specific plantmaterials.

Select each plant with the knowledge of its

mature size, growth rate, and expected life span.

While it is hard to visualize the mature size of a

plant, that information is available. Design to

A pergola structure can provide a unique sense of enclosure for

outdoor spaces and also visually strengthen important connec-

tions between outdoor living areas.

Canopy trees provide shade.

Plants separte activities and provide privacy.

Plants work as windbreaks.

2121

21

11-21

accommodate mature plants. Also consider the

form and structure of the plant as well as the

silhouette it creates. Additional considerations

for selection might be the color of the leaves or

flowers, the fruit, or other seasonal interests.

The theme which you established at thebeginning of your design development should bereflected in your planting concept. Keep the listof plant materials you select simple and unified.This will create a quality of oneness in thelandscape.

The steps in selecting plant materials are as

follows:

1. List environmental conditions that the

plant must live with.

2. Determine the functions the plants will

serve.

3. Determine size, habit, and seasonal

characteristics of any desired plants.

4. Select plants that meet these

specifications.

Summary

Developing a landscape design requires the

following steps:

1. List your client’s needs and develop a design

program.

2. Study the property and draw a site inventory

and site analysis plan.

3. Draw “bubble diagrams” showing spaces

required for activities.

4. Refine your design studies and draw

circulation routes.

5. Develop a conceptual design by selecting a

landscape theme and shaping the spaces

according to this theme.

6. Refine your concepts and develop a master

plan. Select landscape structures and

construction materials which will enhance

the appearance and increase the functional

use of your property.

7. Select plant materials that will thrive in the

environment you have to work with.

All of these steps are closely related.Thinking about the total site while you areplanning a particular activity area will help makethe areas relate to one another. Thinking aboutmaterials while you are shaping areas will helpyou decide on the form those areas will take.

Plants create an enclosed space.

11-22

Graphics and DraftingTechnique

Making a Measured Drawing:

Creating an attractive and functionallandscape requires careful forethought andplanning. Prior to beginning a landscape design,it is necessary to take an inventory of the existingsite. This information is used to make anaccurate measured drawing. Approaching theproject in this manner allows ample opportunityto logically incorporate both your current andfuture needs and to preserve desired existing sitefeatures.

A measured drawing is constructed in planview as it would appear from an airplane passingdirectly overhead. It is drawn to scale andindicates all existing structures, vegetation, andany other features which might influence thedevelopment of a new landscape design. In itsfinal form, this measured drawing will serve asthe base sheet on which a new design can begenerated.

Scale Drawing:

A measured drawing is “drawn-to-scale,”i.e., one inch on the paper plan represents apredetermined number of feet on the ground.The scale selected is influenced by two factors:the size of the area being drawn and the desiredsize of the sheet for the finished drawing. Forexample, using the scale of 1 inch = 10 feet foran area 75 feet x 150 feet requires a sheet ofpaper approximately 8 inches x 16 inches in size.

necessary. Special graduated scales are availablefrom art stores or from drafting equipmentsuppliers. Architects’ scales are marked infractions of inches (1/8 inch = 1 foot, 1/4 inch =1 foot, 1/2 inch = 1 foot, etc.), engineer’s scalesare marked in tenths of inches (1/10 inch = 1foot, 1/20 inch = 1 foot, 1/30 inch = 1 foot, etc.).

How to Begin:

Start by drawing a rough sketch resemblingthe general shape and proportions of the areabeing landscaped. This rough sketch should belarge enough to include all gathered information.Later under more favorable conditions (indoors,out of the wind and rain) transfer the contents ofthe rough sketch to a more formal version, drawnto scale with a straight edge.

Use a tape measure and be as exact aspossible when doing the measuring. To avoidconfusion later, it is best to be precise from thestart; merely “stepping-off” is not an accuratemeasurement. The importance of having anexact representation becomes evident whentrying to allocate sufficient space for selectedplant materials or when determining the size andlocation of construction projects such as walks orpatios.

The most frequently used scales for residentialprojects are 1”=10’ and 1/8”=1’-0”.

Working “to scale” need not be difficult.Interpolation from a standard ruler is not

1 inch = 10 feet

1/4 inch = 1 foot

1/8 inch = 1 foot

Rough sketch

2323

23

11-23

When recording the collected data, orient itso that everything can be read from the samedirection without having to turn the paper. Thisapplies to all numbers, labels, notes, etc.

Identify and locate all existing plant materialon the site. There should be easily recognizedgraphic differences between deciduous andconiferous materials.

To help simplify this procedure it is standardpractice to divide the plant materials into threemain categories: canopy, shrub, and groundcover.Further differentiation is achieved by the use ofvarying graphic symbols.

Finished drawing

Utilty pole

Water hook-up

Light

Catch basin

Utility line

Fence line

Existing contours

Proposed contours

Property line PL

Center line cL

Easement

Functional graphics

Nodes and focal points

Arrows

11-24

The above are common symbols that are usedto record information on the base sheet.

Summary

New landscape plans can be realisticallyproposed only after all existing site conditionshave been inventoried. The accurate measureddrawing is a graphic technique for recording thisinformation. Once the drawing has beensystematically completed, you will be ready toconsider additions or deletions to the existinglandscape which will accommodate current andfuture needs.

Deciduous trees

Coniferous trees

2525

25

11-25

Principles of Landscape Design

What is landscape design, and what are the

qualities of successful design? Landscape design

is the ordering and manipulating of elements

which, if handled correctly, result in an

environment which can be truly enjoyed. There

are no magical combinations or rules which

automatically guarantee a good design. Rather,

each solution is unique and should be evaluated

on its own. There are, however, some common

traits of successful design which can be

discussed in general terms, regardless of their

individual applications. Listed below are five

characteristics typically contained in all

successful landscape designs.

Characteristics of Successful

Residential Landscape Design

Satisfies the needs of the client. A

successful design exhibits influence indicative of

the designer’s preferences; however, it also

reflects and is directed by the client’s tastes and

needs. The proposed design should be functional

and be visually pleasing and economically

feasible so that it is not too costly to implement.

Functions properly. The design should be

logically organized and work easily and safely.

Sidewalks and patios are constructed of suitable

and durable materials and of proper dimensions

to allow comfortable use. Water drainage

should be taken into consideration, and

appropriate plant materials selected sensitively to

fit the cultural and microclimatic conditions,

existing or desired.

Sensitive to the site. The landscape design

respects and works with all site features

emphasizing the positive qualities, such as

outstanding or mature vegetation, rock

outcroppings, or notable views. Simultaneously,

plans should minimize any negative aspects,

such as lack of privacy, no shade, or unsightly

adjoining property. Other limitations are also

considered such as soil types and location of

utilities and their easements in regards to

locating proposed elements. A sympathetic

understanding is given to natural seasonal

phenomena such as prevailing winter winds,

summer breezes, and annual variations of sun

angles, temperature, etc.

Enhances the quality of life. A pleasing

landscape improves our day to day surroundings.

It makes life more enjoyable and pleasant by

providing a setting that reduces tensions,

anxieties, and conflicts in our daily environment.

Aesthetically successful. Successful

designs have all of the previously listed features

composed in an aesthetically satisfying manner.

Many times a design’s worth is judged totally by

its appearance, without consideration of all the

other equally important criteria. Remember,

good looks alone do not necessarily make a

design successful. Similarly, a design which

works functionally but fails visually is not

desirable. Successful designs combine both

functional and aesthetic qualities into the total

composition.

No Magic Formulas

Attractive and functionally organized

designs are usually not accidental occurrences.

Typically much forethought and planning goes

into design proposals. While there are no magic

formulas for good design, certain principles have

evolved over time through all of the arts – music,

painting, architecture, sculpture, etc. – that when

used are most likely to yield orderly and

aesthetically pleasing results.

Landscape architects and other designersuse a vocabulary which can be confusing topeople with no design training. To help thissituation, brief definitions and simpleillustrations of selected design principles follow.

Order:

Order is the organization and basic structure

of the design and is sometimes referred to as the

theme. Design styles are potential themes.

Some examples are natural, formal, curvilinear,

or symmetrical. A design without order is simply

a jumble of unrelated parts working

independently, an undesirable trait in landscape

11-26

design. Figure 1 identifies a residential entry

sketch and plan that have been planted

haphazardly without order or a theme.

Unity:

In a design context, the concept of unity has

several applications. First, unity is the

harmonious relationship among all elements of

design. When achieved, logical relationships are

apparent and nothing seems out of place or

inappropriate. Secondly, when applied on a

smaller, more intimate scale, unity becomes a

way to simplify the number of differing elements

within a given design to reduce the competition

for attention. Examples of this are unity of form,

of texture, or of color within a composition.

Figure 2 is the rear entry view from the plan

(Fig. 1).

The existing tree seems inappropriate while

standing alone yet, as will be seen in future

sketches, serves the functions of scale and shade

to this outdoor space. A competent designer

must be able to make the fine distinction

between unity and monotony. Too much

conformance from the repeated use of identical

components is not desirable. The responsibility

rests on the designer to be able to strike the

delicate balance between simplicity and

complexity, similarity and difference. Figure 3

identifies monotony of form in the residential

entry situation.

Dominance:

Dominance is the authority of one element

over all other parts within a design. Dominance

Figure 1. A residential entry sketch and plan as existed before

planning. A haphazardly planted scheme, without order or theme.

Figure 2. This existing tree in the outdoor living area may

initially seem inappropriate as it stands alone, yet with proper

evaluation of the area will serve to scale and shade furture

developments in the space

Figure 3. Monotony of plant form and spacing is the problem in

this proposal for the entry foundation

2727

27

11-27

is frequently referred to as the focal point of

a design. Specific characteristics of the

dominant element, such as its color, texture,

form, or size, draws attention to its presence;

however, to be effective it is equally important to

have a subdued background against which the

dominant feature or features can be contrasted.

Use caution when placing more than one focal

attraction in a single composition since dominant

elements too closely spaced will conflict with

each other, thus defeating their purpose.

Figure 4 represents a residential yard focal point

in the proposal for the plan in (Figure 1).

The rear outdoor living area has had a brick

terrace added as well as the gate access relocated

to relate to a future focal point development off

this axis. Figure 5 represents the dominance of

one plant over another in the focal area off the

terrace and gate axis. The shape and positive

nature of the evergreen forms are dominant over

the deciduous plants. In spring the deciduous

plant, if flowering, may be dominant over the

evergreen species.

Repetition:

The concept of repetition in landscape design

frequently generates negative feelings with many

people. This is unfortunate because, when used

discreetly, repetition can be a very effective way

of simplifying both the overall design by

reducing the number of different individual

components within a design. Repeated use of a

particular element, a plant or construction

material, throughout a design is a technique used

to tie together the various components of a

design helping to unify the scheme. As long as

the repetition is not carried to an excessive

degree, the appearance and reappearance of a

consistently similar element is an effective

means of stimulating “recall” in the perceiver’s

mind, thus giving a total cohesiveness to the

overall composition. Figure 6 identifies repeated

use of ground covers to be component parts of

the design, tying the plantings together across the

entry walk.

Scale:

Scale is the relative size of an object in

space. Appropriateness of scale is essential to

the success of a design. In landscape design,

scale is equally critical both to the parts of the

design which shape the various spaces as well as

Figure 4. In a propsal for the rear yard area, a terrace and change

in gate location provides an opportunity to create a focal point as

guests and residents enter.

Figure 5. The dominance of evergreen plant forms and type is

evident in this focal planting off the axis of the gate/terrace

proposal. It can be noted also that if the deciduous plant to the

right of the evergreens is flowering or has other constrants, it can

become seasonally dominant over the other planting components.

Figure 6. Repeated use of ground covers in the foreground and

the background foundation areas helps tie together the proposed

small trees and the two areas adjoining the walk.

11-28

the spaces themselves. A uniform

consistency of scale throughout a design is

mandatory. A properly-scaled design appears

normal and comfortable, while an area with a

conflict of scale generates uncomfortable

tension. The next sketches reflect the concept of

scale relative to a residential situation. Figure 7

shows the residence with no plantings, thus the

spaces adjoining are not scaled and no transition

provided. Figure 8 shows plantings that are too

large for the space, creating a crowded,

overloaded feeling. Figure 9 shows the rear

outdoor living area where a deck and overhead

lattice have helped scale the space complemented

by the existing tree from (Figure 2).

Balance:

Balance is the equalization of visual weight

within a composition. As mentioned earlier,

most designs contain accents or dominant

elements, but there also needs to be a majority of

subdued neutral background for the design to be

successful. This means that much of the space

within a composition has to remain unfilled to

achieve sufficient amounts of neutral space.

Designs in which no space has been left open

appear cluttered and messy.

Achieving an effective balance between the

features and the open areas required looking at a

whole composition as one entity – the line of the

architecture, the configuration of the sidewalks

and drive, and the form of the plant materials.

Basically, there are two types of balance –

symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical

designs have identical compositional

arrangement on both sides of a control axis.

Figure 7. With no plantings, there is a lack of scale, transition

and foreground to the space between the front elevation of the

residence and the street. Plantings give the illusion of depth and

provide scale and transition between the site and structure.

Figure 8. Plantings too large for the situation overcrowd and

overscale the size and proportions of the residence.

Figure 9. The proposed deck, terrace and lattice help provide

utility, unity, scale and attractiveness to a previously awkward

outdoor living area.

Figure 10. The basic organization of any site proposal should

relate to the existing spaces defined by structures and associated

site edges. This basic zone plan shows the inherent symmetry of

the entry versus the asymmetry of the rear yard due to garage

location and other existing site elements

2929

29

11-29

Summary

This chapter has given a glimpse into some

of the design considerations which are involved

in giving form to landscape designs. The

landscape architect strives to manipulate and

coordinate these design elements into visually

attractive and functional landscapes. But this

must be done in a manner which exhibits a

genuine understanding of and sensitivity to the

site itself, environmental influences, client needs,

and plant and construction material

characteristics.

Asymmetrical designs are balanced by implied

equivalent counterbalance on opposite sides of

the compositions; balance is achieved without

repetition. The sketches illustrate several

examples of balanced compositions. Figure 10

shows the plan from (Figure 1) conceptualized

into zones. The entry, due to the symmetrical

nature of its alignment on the property and

architectural features, has a definite formal

feeling while the rear yard seems informal,

asymmetrical, due to the drive, garage, and walk

offsets. The previously proposed illustrations

have been used as examples of design principles.

(Figure 6) shows repetition yet also an

asymmetrical planting design for the entry versus

the more symmetrical approaches of (Figures 3

and 8). Overall, the final planting solution

should relate to the lines established from

reading the site, the architecture, and the

anticipated uses.

11-30

Fundamentals of Planting Design

Determining Your Needs:

Plants can perform many jobs in a landscape.You may want plants to provide shade or defineboundaries. Your first step toward selecting plantsis to determine what jobs they need to perform.Following are some plant functions which youshould consider.

Architecture:

Architecturally, plants can be used as ceilings,walls and floors in your outdoor living areas.Canopy trees, those that grow tall with upperspreading branches, create a sheltered area beneaththem. The branches and leaves form a permeableoverhead structure that functions as a ceiling to anoutdoor room.

Shrubs can be used to define the edges ofyards in a manner similar to a fence. Shrubs thatstay below eye level function as a boundary.Shrubs that grow tall can totally enclose a spaceand provide privacy similar to a wall.

Floors can be created using groundcoverplants. These are plants that spread and grow closeto the ground. There are a variety of groundcoversthat can create floors, and a lawn is just one ofthese (Figure 1).

Engineering:

Examples of engineering functions includetraffic control. Shrubs used to line a path orsidewalk will help keep traffic on the desiredpath. Barrier plants with thorns will discourageclose contact and help control pedestrians.Groundcover plants also help direct attention andmovement. People will tend to walk on aprovided surface rather than on an adjacentgroundcover.

Erosion control is another importantengineering function. Plants with aggressiveroot systems will help stabilize soil on slopes.Also, plant foliage reduces the impact ofraindrops and helps prevent soil erosion.

Plants can also function as sound barriers.The leaves help to deflect and break up soundwaves. At times, the movement of foliagecreates a sound which masks the surrounding,less pleasant noises. In addition, plants canblock the view of a noisy highway or industrialsite thereby making people less aware of thepresence of noise (Figure 2).

Climate:

Climate functions are an important part of aplant’s performance. Trees can be placed toshade portions of a house, driveway or patio. Ifthese trees are deciduous, they will drop theirleaves in winter, then the sun can penetrate towarm the adjacent surfaces and structures.

Large shrubs and tree masses can serve aswind screens and windbreaks. This is beneficialin winter to keep cold wind away from anentrance. If planned correctly, this windbreakcan act as a snow fence and keep the driveway orroad free of drifting snow.

Shrub plantings at the foundation of a housecan help insulate the house. They create a deadair space between the house and the plant andreduce heat loss from the surface of the structure(Figure 3).

Aesthetic:

Aesthetic functions are also performed byplants. A plant can be used as a piece of living

Figure 1. Plants can be used to create outdoor rooms with floors,

walls and ceilings

3131

31

11-31

sculpture and be placed to attract maximumattention. This function requires the selection ofa plant worthy of this attention. Other plants canserve as a neutral background for a center ofinterest or an outdoor area. Landscape plantspecies can be repeated to connect unrelatedobjects for visual continuity. Using the samegroundcover around different plants will helpmake them relate to one another.

Plant Characteristics

Plants become more valuable when used tosolve problems than when used only forbeautification. That is why planting designconsiders functional uses of plants. However,the function of a plant is largely determined byits growth characteristics. While a plant can betrained and pruned to grow in a particularmanner, it is better if plants can be selected fortheir unique and desirable growth habits.

Size:

Perhaps the most important characteristic toconsider is the size that a plant will reach atmaturity. It makes little sense to select plants

that will outgrow their space whenknowledgeable selections can be made based onexpected mature size.

Plants are categorized by their size. Treesare the largest of the woody plants. There arelarge trees as well as smaller, ornamental ones.Shrubs are intermediate in size and groundcoversare the lowest growing woody plants.

Large trees should be planted only wherethey will have plenty of room to grow beforethey reach their mature height and spread. Whileit is difficult to envision some newly plantedtrees reaching a height of 100 feet, it can happen,so plan for it.

In addition, many trees will have a maturespread equal to their height. This too should beplanned for, resulting in trees selected for thisdesirable characteristic.

Evergreen trees should not be overlooked.They often achieve a base spread much largerthan expected, and this mature height and spreadmust be accommodated for in your design.

An intermediate category of plants is thesmall trees. These are often ornamental withflowers, fruits and other attractive plant parts.This category of trees usually reaches amaximum height of 30 to 35 feet. There areadvantages to using these trees, especiallyaround smaller one-story houses. They canshade portions of a house and patio, and theirsize is in scale with the smaller home. Theseornamental trees are often used in areas wherethey will receive maximum visual attention.

Shrubs are plants with multiple stems whichrange in height from 2 to 20 feet. They oftenhave foliage all the way to the ground. Shrubsare often planted in groupings or masses but canalso be planted individually as a center ofinterest. The function you desire will largelydetermine where and how close together shrubsare planted.

There is much variety of height and spreadwithin each of these categories. There are oftendwarf varieties available, and these may be idealfor planting in confined areas.

Figure 3. Modify a micro-climate by using trees to create shade

and to cool breezes.

Figure 2. Wind and noise can be deflected by a strategically

located mass planting.

11-32

Form:

The shape or form of the plant is alsoimportant to its functions. For example,pyramidal-shaped evergreen trees would not givethe ceiling effect which can be achieved withcanopy trees. Even canopy trees have variety inform (Figure 4).

A shrub that is upright with arching branchesmay work well as a specimen plant but fail as ascreen because there is insufficient foliage at thebase to block vision. Compact and roundedforms may be ideally suited for a shrub border orbarrier planting.

Plant form is important to remember whenutilizing the principles of design. Rather thanrepeating a plant species, a plant form or shapemay be repeated and provide the desired unity.Contrast will be achieved by placing an upright,pyramidal-shaped plant among a majority of low,rounded plant forms.

Plant Environments

While care should be taken to determineneeds and identify plant characteristics, plantswill not function as desired if they do not have achance to grow. That is why it is very importantto familiarize yourself with the environmentalconditions around your site.

Hardiness Zone:

The hardiness of a plant indicates its abilityto withstand winter conditions. Theseconditions, based on average annual minimumtemperatures, are summarized and depicted on aplant hardiness zone map. Indiana has three

hardiness zones based on the USDA planthardiness zone map. Most references to plantswill list the extreme hardiness zone that eachplant can tolerate.

Sun, Shade and Moisture:

All plants need some light in order to grow,and most grow best in full sunlight. However,areas of full sun may also be associated with drysoils. Determine which conditions are mostprevalent on your property and assess the amountof shade and moisture that each area receives.Then select plants for their adaptability to theseparticular factors. Some plants will grow best inshade while others thrive only in full sun.

Different plants have different wateringrequirements. You can help a plant survive byplacing it in the environment that comes closestto fulfilling its needs. If a plant grows in moistareas, it means the plant needs soils that holdsome moisture throughout the heat of summer.Be familiar with the moisture conditions. Assessthose that are associated with sunny or shadyareas, and select plants accordingly.

Soil Type and Fertility:

Organic matter and nutrients can be added tosoil to increase its fertility and encourage plantgrowth. However, the best way to ensuresuccessful growth is to choose those plantswhich naturally grow in a particular soil type.This requires some knowledge of soil types.

Figure 4. Plants vary in size, shape and growth habits.

ZZONE 1 : below -50*F

ZZONE 2 : -50* to -40*

ZZONE 11 : above 40*

ZZONE 10 : 30* to 40*

ZZONE 9 : 20* to 30*

ZZONE 8 : 10* to 20*

ZZONE 7 : 0* to 10*

ZZONE 6 : -10* to 0*

ZZONE 5 : -20* to -10*

ZZONE 4 : -30* to -20*

ZZONE 3 : -40* to -30*

Figure 5. USDA Plant Hardiness Zones

3333

33

11-33

It is also important to know the consistencyof the soil. Whether the soil is sandy, clay, orrich in organic matter will affect both the pH andmoisture holding capacity of the soil. This willin turn determine the plants that can best growthere. Use this information to help select plantsthat will thrive.

Vegetation:

It can also be very helpful to examine anyexisting vegetation on the site. Look for plantsthat are growing well or those that have recentlydied. Record the size and health condition ofany plants, both those you are planning tomaintain and to replace. You can make newplant selection decisions based in part on howwell previous plants have done in similarconditions. But it makes no sense to replace adead plant with one exactly like it until you

know why the first one died.

Planting Design

Once you are familiar with your siteconditions and have a clear picture of thefunctions you want plants to fulfill, you are readyto make specific plant selection and placementdecisions.

When selecting, start with the largest plantsfirst. These would be the large trees. On aseparate page, list all those plants that have thedesirable characteristics for your functionalneeds. Then, eliminate those plants that are nothardy in your area and those that cannot tolerateyour site conditions. Consider two or threedifferent tree species when making your finalselections.

Now, locate these plants on a separateoverlay of tracing paper. This is the start of yourPlanting Plan.

Move on to the next largest plants that youthink you will need. These will be the smallertrees and then large shrubs. Repeat the processof listing alternatives and desirable character-istics and eliminating those that will not workuntil you again have just a few species fromwhich to make your final selections. Draw thelocations of these plants on your plan (Figure 6).

You may want to differentiate between theplants on your plan by using graphic symbols.Be sure to use a different symbol to distinguishexisting plants from proposed. Evaluate yourplan and review your list of needs to make surethey are being fulfilled.

Save all your plant lists and evaluationcomments so that if substitutions are necessaryyou will have a clear picture of why you selectedor eliminated plants as you did.

Evaluate your design for unity and order.Strive for continuity by repeating plants. Makesure you have not included competing centers ofinterest. Most importantly, balance the amountof planted area with a proportionate amount ofunplanted area. Achieving this balance is crucialto the success of your plan.

Summary

Planting design is the process used to selectand place plants in the landscape. Plantmaterials are selected for their ability to grow ona site and their ability to fulfill the client’s needs.Your chances of achieving an attractive andfunctional landscape are enhanced if you planwith care before you start to plant.

Figure 6. A Planting Plan is drawn to scale and shows the

location of existing and proposed plants. Use a Plant List to

itemize and organize specific plant information.

11-34

Landscape Design for MinimumMaintenance

A maintenance program for any landscapeshould begin with the design. While the plantsand structures in a landscape all require somecare, you can choose whether your landscapewill require little or much attention.

Maintenance of Plants

Strive to select plants that require lowmaintenance but will also fulfill your designrequirements. The following plants are listedfrom high to low maintenance:

• Plants requiring special care, such as espalier and topiary

• Annual flowers• Lawns• Groundcovers• Deciduous and evergreen shrubs• Evergreen trees• Deciduous trees

Plant Selection:

No matter how well the landscape plan isdesigned, if the plant material is poorly adaptedto the site, the appearance of the landscape willsuffer. Therefore, plant material should beselected initially on the basis of its ability togrow in the climate and the soil conditions whichare present.

Native plants, those found growing in thelocale, are usually well-adapted to the existingconditions. You may wish to obtain new plantswhich are also native; however, native plantsmay not be available from local garden centers.Keep in mind the reason the plants are native isbecause they thrive on the conditions which arepresent. Therefore, select other plants of asimilar nature. In selecting plants, the followingare some maintenance concerns which youshould consider.

Plant height and spread. It makes littlesense to plant a shrub next to a sidewalk if it willcover the sidewalk in a few years. For smallareas and restricted zones, select plant materialswith a mature height and spread that will notexceed the planting area. Determine the desiredheight and spread and select plants achievingthose desired dimensions (Figure 1).

Plant spacing. There is no “standard”recommended spacing for plants in the homelandscape. Space between plants will vary de-pending on the mature size. Another factor is theuse being made of a group of plants. Most plantslook better when allowed to grow into theirnatural shape. If plant selections are properlyspaced, there should be a minimum of drasticpruning required. A common mistake is to spaceshrubs too close together. Allow for growth andexpansion to avoid overcrowding (Figure 2).

Maintenance of Landscape Structures

Areas in the landscape where walkways,patios, steps, walls, fences or shelters will beconstructed also must be examined for periodicmaintenance. Initial selection of materials andstructures should certainly be made withknowledge of their maintenance needs. Also,select materials and structures that will enhanceyour landscape and allow you to use it in themanner desired.

There are differing maintenance require-ments for different construction materials andstructures. A concrete patio or walk should notneed maintenance for 12-15 years, if the concrete

Figure 1. Leave enough space between new plants to allow for

growth without overcrowding.

Figure 2. When planting near sidewalks, doors or windows,

select plants whose size will not exceed the limits of the confined

area.

3535

35

11-35

was poured and cured properly. Asphalt drivesor walks should be sealed about every two years tokeep the edges from graveling and breaking.

Wooden structures requiring paint may need anew coat every three or four years. However, ifpressure-treated wood is used, a stain or bleachmight only have to be applied once. Preservativetreatments usually last the normal twenty-year lifespan of a wood structure. Redwood and cedar aretypes of wood that contain a natural preservative.They require no surface treatment and with ageturn a soft, natural grey.

Brick set on a sand base is initially less costlythan brick set in mortar; however, brick in mortarwill last twenty to thirty years. Brick laid on sandmay need to be reset every three to five years. Thetradeoff between initial cost versus long termmaintenance will be a personal consideration. Thefollowing surfaces are listed from high to lowmaintenance.

• Earth• Gravel• Brick with sand joints• Asphalt• Brick with mortared joints• ConcreteWhen considering landscape and construction

materials, compare the initial cost and maintenanceto long term cost and durability.

Final Suggestions

Avoid isolated plantings. Mowing is a tediouschore made even worse when you have tomaneuver around individual plants. Connectseparate plants by creating planting beds. Thiscontinuous edge will make mowing much easier.

Mass plants with similar requirements.Placing plants in groupings will reduce mainten-ance only if the different plants have similarcultural requirements. Plants should have similarneeds for water, light, fertilization and soil pH,otherwise work will increase as you alter theconditions for one plant while maintaining theconditions for another.

Consider plant debris. Massing plants willhelp eliminate weeds and will also keep the debrisof branches and leaves centrally located. Groundcovers around the base of a tree can help hide someof the litter of fallen leaves.

Use mulch. Layers of organic mulch, such asshredded bark, around the base of plants promotegrowth. Mulching slows evaporation andreduces fluctuation of soil temperatures. It alsohelps reduce weed growth and soil erosion.

Edge planting beds. Wooden, plastic or steeledging around plant beds serves to keep soil andmulch in and lawn out. However, to be effective,edging must be properly installed to itsmaximum depth so a lawn mower can pass overit. Otherwise, hand trimming will be necessary.

Let construction materials help. Placepaving in areas where heavy traffic preventslawn or ground cover from growing.

Summary

Remember that the time to plan formaintenance is during design. Spending someinitial time and thought on maintenance will cutdown on long term work. Apply propertechniques in preparing planting areas to preventproblems from the start. Select plant materialsthat are hardy for your area.

Qualities of SuccessfulLandscape Design

In general, an aesthetically pleasing and

functional landscape design that satisfies the

specific needs and desires of a client can be

considered successful. Visual appearance is

what people generally react to first. A number of

factors affect the visual characteristics of a

landscape, including its sense of order or theme;

its contextual appropriateness, or the way that

the house and the property seem to visually “fit”

together. A landscape’s compositional quality,

particularly of plants, is very important for

success and requires successful arrangements of

various textures and colors in mass to ensure

unity within the composition. Material selection

also plays a major role in the overall success of a

project. Plants should be meticulously selected

to ensure the best representation of the type of

plant proposed in the design. To ensure that the

original design intent is sustained, the designer

must consider how the landscape will mature.

What will be required to maintain the landscape

as the designer envisioned? Will the designer’s

vision be sustainable as the plants mature?

11-36

Review and Study Questions

1. List seven recommended steps for developing a successful landscape design.

2. Name fifteen of the possible questions listed in the chapter that may help you to determine thedifferent ways that your client may use their outdoor space.

3. From the site inventory and analysis checklist provided in the chapter, name fifteen points to considerwhen conducting a site inventory and analysis.

4. Briefly describe the constructed landscape elements discussed in the chapter.(retaining walls, freestanding walls, walkways and driveways, terraces and decks, overhead struc-tures)

5. List four recommended steps for selecting plant materials when designing a landscape.

6. Name and define six of the selected design principles discussed in the chapter.

For Additional Reading

Plan and Section Drawing: Second edition, Thomas C. Wang. (John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1996).

Planting the Landscape: A Professional Approach to Garden Design, Nancy A. Leszczynski. (John Wileyand Sons, Inc., 1999).

Residential Landscape Architecture, J. E. Hiss and N.K. Booth. (Prentice Hall, 2002).