Landscape Design PDF

HO-105 Landscape Design By Jan McNeilan, retired Extension consumer horticulturist, and Ann Marie VanDerZanden, former Extension Master Gardener state coordinator, both of Oregon State University. Adapted for use in Kentucky by Richard Durham, consumer horticulture Exten- sion specialist and state...

HO-105 Landscape Design By Jan McNeilan, retired Extension consumer horticulturist, and Ann Marie VanDerZanden, former Extension Master Gardener state coordinator, both of Oregon State University. Adapted for use in Kentucky by Richard Durham, consumer horticulture Exten- sion specialist and state Master Gardener coordinator, University of Kentucky. Merely planting trees and shrubs is not landscaping. In this chapter: Designing a landscape gives you an opportunity to create habitats for people, plants, and wildlife. Planning 01 As you try to preserve clean air, clean water, and landfill space, your challenge is to create a landscape that is both aes- Parts of a Landscape 03 thetically pleasing and environmentally sound. A sustainable Elements and Principles of Design  04 landscape requires minimal inputs of labor, water, fertilizer, Plant Selection 05 and pesticides to thrive. Creating a sustainable landscape means working toward a thoughtful balance between resources Drawing a Landscape Plan 08 used and results gained. By factoring in environmental con- Renovating an Established Landscape 11 siderations, you can create a pleasant place that is part of an Evaluating Landscape Sustainability  12 environmental solution rather than an environmental problem. For More Information 12 Landscape Design Planning Questionnaire 13 Planning The smaller your house, grounds, or budget, the greater the need for correct and complete planning. Every square foot of L andscape designs differ depending on how the landscape space and every dollar must produce maximum results. Plan will be used. Although the principles are the same, a for the best use of the site, the least environmental impact, and homeowner who wants an aesthetically pleasing, low- minimum upkeep. maintenance landscape will create a design very different than A master plan is essential to ensure that all work done on that of an avid gardener whose main purpose in life is to spend the property will blend into the desired final outcome. Keep in time in the garden. mind that landscape development can be a long-term process This chapter is not meant to define the art of landscape within the framework of your plan. There is no need to develop design but rather to help you take a realistic approach to your entire lot at once. Completing the landscape over a five- landscape planning. Your end design should meet your year period is a feasible approach. This time frame allows you needs and incorporate principles of sustainability into an to evaluate plants as they grow and mature and generally is evolving landscape. more manageable financially than doing everything at once. Kentucky gardeners are fortunate to be able to use a wide Grading may be needed for a new home site. If you must have variety of plant materials to create landscapes that meet their grading work done, consider ways to save topsoil and protect needs. This available diverse plant material can be used to cre- existing trees and vegetation from construction damage and ate outdoor rooms with canopies of trees; walls of shrubs and soil compaction. vines; and carpets of groundcovers, perennials, and annuals to provide color and interest. Site Analysis Before beginning, consider what type of landscape will suit For a new landscape, a thorough site analysis can help you your needs. Landscapes reflect many approaches. Examples develop a plan to enhance and maintain your property’s sus- of landscape types are low maintenance, water-wise, formal, tainability. It’s also a useful first step in renovating and chang- informal, native, wildlife-attracting, small space/container, ing an existing landscape. See the landscape design planning shade, and specialty/collection. questionnaire at the end of this chapter for ideas. Avid gardeners often are collectors who consider plant A site analysis will tell you what you have to work with. arrangement and placement as their gardens develop. While A thorough understanding of your conditions is important, adhering to basic design principles, landscape design for because in a sustainable landscape, native and introduced these gardeners is an ongoing process. Just as seasons change, plants must be well suited to existing light, moisture, and their landscapes take on new looks to include new structures soil conditions. and plants gathered from nurseries, garden centers, friends, and neighbors. CHAPTER 14 Landscape Design Your site analysis also will help you make the best use of avail- Although natural slope variations are an asset, avoid creat- able space in the most attractive way possible, while at the same ing too many artificial slopes. Avoid excessive use of terraces time enabling you to consider the environmental impact of your or retaining walls. If these features are necessary to facilitate landscape plan. Make the most of the site’s natural features and construction or control water drainage, design them to blend advantages. Be sure to include structures such as fences, walls, into the natural terrain. patios, or decks to enhance the human environment and make the landscape more enjoyable. Neighborhood Sights and Sounds Finally, the site analysis will help you select plants that best Keep good views open and screen out those that are unde- fit your landscape’s design and purpose. sirable. Often a well-placed shrub or two provides necessary screening. Additionally, well-placed plantings can act as Factors Influencing Landscape Design noise barriers. Factors influencing landscape design include property Climate characteristics; neighborhood sights and sounds; climate; and Climate includes sunlight, all forms of precipitation, wind, family activities, growth, and change. and temperature. In the case of a new home, these factors affect how the house is placed on the lot, how the land is used, Property Characteristics and what is planted. Don’t fight the climate; capitalize on its In laying out a design, preserve all of your site’s best natural advantages. In warm regions, enlarge the outdoor living area. features, such as mature trees, brooks, ponds, rock outcrop- In cold regions, plant so that the winter scene is enjoyed from pings, good soil, turf, and interesting variations in terrain. These the inside. For example, evergreens and hedges are picturesque natural elements affect the ease of construction and enhance when covered with snow, ice, or rain droplets. landscape possibilities. It is important to study the amount and location of both Carefully survey the area to determine whether site con- sun and shade because individual people respond to them ditions are a problem or they can be incorporated into your differently. Patterns of sun and shade change, depending on design. Examples of problems are thin, overcrowded trees or the time of day and season (Figure 14.1). The sun is higher unstable slopes that may interfere with landscape construction. and shadows are shorter in summer than in winter. Northern You also may have to contend with microclimates such as windy exposures receive the least light and therefore are coolest. East areas, low places with cold air pockets, or areas with poor soil and west exposures receive more light; western exposures are and inadequate water drainage. warmer than eastern ones because they receive afternoon Changes in elevation can add interest and variety to home light. Southern exposures receive the most light and tend to landscapes. The character of the land—its hills, slopes, and be warmest. trees—should determine the basic landscape pattern. A hilly, The main rooms of a house should benefit from winter sun wooded lot lends itself to an informal or natural design, with and summer breezes. You can control the amount of sunlight large areas left in their natural state. In such a setting, large trees and shade by the location of buildings, fences, and plants. You can be retained. Protect native plantings whenever possible. also can take advantage of shade created by structures or plants on your neighbors’ property. house house house morning noon afternoon Figure 14.1. Daily light pattern. Speckled areas indicate shade. 14-2  Landscape Design CHAPTER 14 Remember that low-maintenance practices are often also sustainable landscape practices. Family Activities, Growth, and Change How your landscape will be used should be a determining factor in its design. Analyze your family activities and design a landscape that will mature with the family. Don’t plan a static landscape; it would not work as your family’s needs change. Figure 14.2. Tree planted at a 45° angle from the corner of a house. Parts of a Landscape Trees have an especially strong effect on sunlight. When A landscape is made up of several parts. Some of these— locating trees in your landscape design, consider keeping a private-use areas, children’s play areas, front yards, public areas, sunny area for a vegetable garden while maximizing shady and service and work areas—are discussed in this section. areas for the house and patio or deck. Deciduous trees (those that shed their leaves) shade the house in summer and admit Private-Use Areas sun in winter. The private-use area or outdoor living room is an important Plant trees at a 45° angle away from the corners of the house part of the American home. No yard is too small to have a (Figure 14.2); when mature they will accent the building. Trees private sitting area where family and guests can gather. Where should not block views from windows. Remember that having possible, access from the house to the outdoor area should be too many trees shuts out sunlight and reduces air circulation. easy (Figure 14.3). When renovating an old landscape, consider how light will change when plants or trees are removed. Maintenance Requirements service area service area service area service area service area service area service area service area service area During the early design phase, decide how much time and private private private private private private private private private energy you want to spend on maintenance. Some people enjoy area areaarea areaarea area area areaarea puttering about the yard and may desire a high-maintenance design. Others, however, want a landscape that requires mini- mal maintenance. Generally, the simpler the landscape, the less there is to maintain. A low-maintenance landscape is the goal of most home- owners. The following strategies will help you reduce house house house house house house house house house maintenance requirements: Limit the size of the lawn. public public public area areaarea public publicarea public areaarea public public public area areaarea Use groundcovers, bark chips, and other mulches for weed control. Figure 14.3. Use areas in a landscape. Use paving or gravel in heavily traveled areas. Provide edging strips of brick, concrete, or bender board for flower beds and When designing private areas, consider home security. shrub borders to ease mowing. Motion sensor lights can protect these areas at night, and prun- Use fences, walls, or informal plantings (instead of clipped ing shrubs for openness and visibility can prevent them from formal hedges) for screening. being used for concealment during the day. For vulnerable entry Design raised flower beds for easy access and to help control points to your property or home, choose defensive plants that weeds. are thorny or difficult to walk through. Use native plant materials. Consider the following guidelines when planning outdoor Install an underground irrigation system if you get little private living areas: summer rain. Privacy—Enclose the area from public view and nearby Use small flower beds. Use flowering trees and shrubs for neighbors. Properly grouped shrubs and trees work well. For a additional color. small area, use a trellis, containers with vines, or a fence. Screen Be selective when choosing plant materials. Compact variet- the area from work areas such as clotheslines, woodpiles, and ies require less pruning; insect- and disease-resistant varieties garden sheds. require less spraying; drought-tolerant plants require less Year-round interest—Plants in the outdoor living area should be watering. varied and provide interest throughout the year, especially if the Keep the design simple. area is visible from the house. For winter interest, select shrubs 14-3 CHAPTER 14 Landscape Design and trees with colorful bark, evergreen foliage, or colorful fruit. Public Area The rest of the year, use annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees to create interest. Take a seasonal inventory of your proposed This is the area seen from the street. The landscape in this plant list to make sure it includes year-round interest. Pools, area should create a sense of spaciousness. If you want the front stone steps, paving, walls, bird feeders and baths, and other yard to be part of the public area, keep the lawn or groundcover architectural features do not change with the seasons. They open and place shrubs to the sides of the house and in founda- provide interest throughout the year. tion plantings. When selecting shrubs to frame the front door, Climate control—Weather control extends the outdoor living consider their texture, color, size, and shape, so they enhance area’s usefulness. Evergreen trees provide year-round screen- the total effect but do not block doors or windows. Placing tall ing and shade, while deciduous trees screen the area from hot trees in the backyard and medium-size ones on the sides and in summer sun but allow maximum winter sun for solar heat. front is effective. The house should be the focal point of the view. Windbreaks reduce wind. An awning or trellis-type roof can protect against inclement weather. If space allows, a garden pool Service and Work Areas or fountain can convey the effect of coolness during summer An area screened from major views is good for service and with the added benefit of attracting wildlife. work areas, such as space for garbage cans, access to utility Deck or patio—The center of activity for an outdoor living area meters, tool storage, wood storage, compost piles, propagating often is a space with garden or patio furniture and sometimes structures, small greenhouses, kennels, and clotheslines. a grill or outdoor cooking area. It may be a porch, deck, or ter- race next to the house, or it may be a shady area nearby. It may be decked, paved, or in turf. Flagstone, brick, concrete blocks, Elements and Principles of Design and stamped concrete are common surfaces. Landscape design has no hard and fast rules because each The size of this area depends on its expected use and the landscape is a unique creation. However, the following design type and amount of furniture desired. A 10-foot-by-10-foot area principles will help you create an aesthetically pleasing and holds four chairs and is about the minimum size for comfort- useful landscape: ably accommodating four people. Increase the size if you want Simplicity—Simplicity is achieved when different parts of the space for more chairs or a picnic table. design are grouped or arranged to appear as a single unit. For example, you can group plants of similar colors or textures, Children’s Play Area or mass three or more plants of the same species together The play area can be part of the outdoor living area or (Figure 14.4). separate from it. Consider your children’s ages and activities to determine the size and surface of the play area. For very young children, a small area enclosed by a fence near the kitchen or living area is desirable. As children grow up, you’ll need to adjust the design to meet changing recreational needs. Front Yard The area in front of homes traditionally has been left more or less open so passersby can view the home. On small lots, it has become increasingly popular to screen the front yard with fencing, shrubs, or vertical plantings. Privacy may be desirable (a) lack of simplicity (b) when a picture window faces the street or when the front yard is used for outdoor sitting. Where space is limited, a tall, attrac- tive fence can provide privacy and a background for shrubs and smaller plants. Again, consider home security when designing your land- scape. It may be appropriate to use fencing that provides a sense of privacy but can be seen through. Plants that can be pruned for visibility are another option. Be sure to consult local agencies when constructing a fence. (a) lack of simplicity (b) simplicity Figure 14.4. Lack of simplicity (a) and simplicity (b). Although 4b contains more elements than 4a, they are grouped to create a more simple design. 14-4  Landscape Design CHAPTER 14 Rhythm and line—Continuity within the landscape and inte- gration of different elements into the design affect rhythm and Plant Selection line. Effective use of repetition can direct the eye or a person This section discusses some of the factors involved in through the landscape and create a sense of unity among dif- choosing the right plants for your landscape. For specifics on ferent landscape spaces (Figure 14.5). plant selection and care, see Chapter 18, Annual and Perennial Balance—The two common types of balance in landscapes are Flowers (HO-102), and Chapter 15, Lawn Management (AGR- symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical balance is most 206). Well-chosen plantings are necessary to achieve your common in formal landscapes. It has an axis, and everything desired landscape effect. Thousands of varieties of trees, shrubs, on one side is duplicated or mirrored on the other side (Figure vines, and perennials are available, but remember: plants are 14.6a). Asymmetrical balance uses different objects on each not merely ornamental accessories. Their masses define space in side of the axis, but the end result still is a similar visual mass the yard and, consequently, the silhouettes that produce garden on either side (Figure 14.6b). design. Therefore, when selecting plants, consider both their Proportion—This principle refers to the relationship between cultivation requirements and their aesthetic value. different elements within the landscape. The relationships to The best advice in plant selection is to find the right plant for consider are plants to buildings, plants to other plants, and the right place. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plants to people. To achieve correct proportion, always create plant hardiness zones are a starting point, since they are based designs based on the mature height of plants. on winter temperatures. In determining where a plant will Focal point—Focal points give the eye a place to rest when survive, however, you need to consider other factors as well, viewing the landscape as a whole. A focal point may be a plant including frost occurrence, seasonal rainfall distribution, specimen, garden accessory, or water feature. The front door humidity, soil characteristics, water availability, and duration often is the focal point of the public use area; if so, design the and intensity of light. These factors may be more important to a landscape to enhance it. plant’s survival than winter temperatures. Every plant tolerates a range of conditions for each of these factors. Their combined effect determines true plant adaptability. Before selecting plants, consider your site and determine what, if any, environmental conditions exist that might cause problems. Carefully completing a site analysis will help. To what elements will plants be exposed (full sun, shade, wind, reflected heat)? What are the soil conditions (fertile or poor, high or low pH, depth, drainage)? Based on this evaluation, choose plants that are adapted to your specific growing environment. For example, some plants, such as rhododendrons and aza- leas, prefer acid soils (low pH). Most other woody plants grow well across a wide range of soil pH, from acid to alkaline. If your soil is extremely acidic or alkaline, you many need to amend it to adjust the pH, depending on what plants you want to grow. Figure 14.5. Rhythm and line. The plantings direct the eye toward the house. (a) symmetrical balance (b) asymmetrical balance Figure 14.6. Symmetrical balance (a) and asymmetrical balance (b). 14-5 CHAPTER 14 Landscape Design Insect and Disease Resistance Rainfall When selecting plants, look for varieties that are resistant to Total average rainfall has a significant effect on plant growth insect damage and disease in order to eliminate unnecessary and development, and rainfall distribution is equally important. applications of insecticides and fungicides. You can obtain Some areas receive substantial rainfall, but it may not occur resistance information from plant catalogs, garden centers, during the growing season. Where summers are dry, plants nurseries, and Extension offices. may need supplemental water in order to survive. Using spe- cies that need little water is one way to reduce the amount of irrigation needed. Understanding Plant Survival: Hardiness Zones A plant species that flourishes in one part of a given USDA Soil and Moisture Conditions plant hardiness zone is likely to be adaptable in other parts Good soil and proper moisture conditions are crucial to of the same zone or in a warmer zone. Some gardeners ques- plants’ survival. Many plants respond unfavorably when their tion a zone rating when a plant fails to survive its first winter. soil environment changes. For example, some can tolerate A single test, however, is rarely reliable. A small, young plant extremely dry or wet conditions while others cannot; some do may be tender but may become quite hardy as it grows older. well in poor soil while others do not. Nursery-grown plants Other conditions also affect the degree of hardiness. No single are not inexpensive, so provide the best growing conditions winter is quite average; each differs in suddenness and severity possible for each species. Group plants of similar growing of freezing. requirements together to conserve water. Just because a plant may survive in a given zone does not nec- Soil characteristics are a major factor in determining which essarily mean it is recommended for planting in that zone. For plants will thrive in your garden. The ideal garden soil is loam—a example, using the USDA hardiness zone system, crape myrtle, light, crumbly mixture with approximately equal parts sand, silt, Lagerstroemia indica, usually survives as a low-growing, semi- and clay. Good garden soil includes at least four percent organic hardy specimen in the colder areas of zone 6. It develops and matter. Organic matter is important because it promotes better flowers normally, however, in zone 7. This species, therefore, is water and nutrient retention in the soil, air exchange (poros- properly recommended only for zones 7 and above, although ity), and friability or looseness to allow good root penetration. it is often used as a semi-hardy plant in zone 6. Garden soils can be altered, but it is important to complete a Many ways exist to develop microclimates to allow a tender soil test first to determine what improvements your soil needs. plant to grow in an otherwise inhospitable zone. For example, you can control soil fertility and water availability to some extent Degree of Sun or Shade to delay plant growth in spring or to hasten hardiness in fall. The angle of the sun in relation to the earth varies from sum- Windbreaks can provide protection from cold winter winds. mer to winter. The sun’s angle not only affects day length but also Raised beds allow soil to warm earlier in the spring. the shadows in a garden. These shadows determine the amount of sun that plants receive and thus may have a significant effect Factors Affecting Plant Adaptability on their growth. Slopes that face south or southwest get more heat during Factors such as temperature are largely beyond your control the day than those that face north or northeast. Slopes with but do have predictable yearly averages. Of the major factors southern exposure dry out more quickly and often require that govern plant adaptability, frost dates, length of growing supplemental water. Taking advantage of different exposures season, and minimum winter temperatures are among the in the landscape may extend your growing season. hardest to control. Frost Aesthetic Considerations Average first and last frost dates have been calculated for Texture, seasonal foliage color, flowers, fruit, and bark can each plant hardiness zone. These dates give an indication of provide touches of beauty. You even can select plants to relate when to expect the first frost of fall as well as the last frost of to exterior house colors. winter or spring. Try to have some color in the yard year-round. Flowering However, air temperature and movement are important fac- trees provide pastels in spring; beds of perennials and annu- tors in frost occurrence and may create microclimates within als furnish vivid hues in summer; trees and shrubs whose your garden. Because warm air rises and cold air sinks, cool air leaves turn yellow, orange, and crimson brighten gray autumn tends to accumulate in low spots and in areas with minimal days; the bark and fruit of some species is attractive in winter. air movement, thereby creating frost pockets. Species that Interesting year-round effects can also be created by strongly are marginally hardy in a given zone should not be planted in contrasting features. frost pockets. 14-6  Landscape Design CHAPTER 14 Select plants with more than one feature during the seasons. Mature shrubs and trees are usually more open and spread- For example, choose a tree with blossoms in April, beautiful ing than young plants. For example, an oak tree’s head may be fall or midsummer color, and exfoliating (shedding) bark for a pyramid shape when it is young, an irregular oval in middle winter interest. age, and a spreading vase form in old age. Trees are long-lived and relatively inexpensive in terms of Plant Size initial cost and maintenance when compared to lawns, flower Consider the mature size of plants you select for your beds, hedges, and many other landscape features. In the past, landscape. A common mistake is to select plants that soon many builders committed costly errors by destroying trees become too large for their locations. The drastic pruning that when establishing new residential subdivisions. Most real estate then becomes necessary adds to the cost of maintenance and developers now appreciate the value of trees and attempt to save may reduce the grace and beauty of the specimen. Overgrown them when land is graded before house construction. However, plants that are left unpruned alter the balance and accent of a trees that are old and diseased or improperly located should be design. In addition, they may partially hide the house instead removed and replaced with more suitable specimens. of complementing it. Some common forms of shrubs and trees are shown in Figure 14.7. Plant Form Groundcovers such as turf, low-spreading shrubs, creeping Shrubs are woody plants that grow to a height of three to 12 plants, and prostrate vines are essential landscaping materials. feet. They may have one or several stems with foliage extending Many designs no longer include turf but instead use hardy nearly to the ground. Common forms include the following: groundcovers. Groundcovers also are grown on banks that are Low or spreading (e.g., juniper species) too rough or steep to mow and under trees where grass does Round or upright (e.g., euonymous, photinia, and forsythia) not grow satisfactorily. Vase (e.g., Vanhoutte spirea) Pyramidal (e.g., hybrid tea roses) Plant Texture Columnar (e.g., arborvitae species) A plant’s texture depends on the size and arrangement of its foliage. Plants with large, widely spaced leaves have coarse tex- Trees are woody plants that typically grow more than 12 ture. Plants with small, closely spaced leaves have fine texture. feet tall and have only one main stem or trunk. The head or Texture can vary by season, depending on whether a plant is leafy portion of the tree develops a typical form such as one deciduous or evergreen. of the following: Some variation in texture is needed to make a landscape Round or oval (e.g., maple, oak, and pine) interesting. Avoid extremes in texture, however. Vase (e.g., elm) Pendulous (e.g., weeping willow, cherry, and birch) Pyramidal (e.g., spruce, fir, and hemlock) Columnar (e.g., hop hornbeam) irregular prostrate mound or spreading oval pendulous pyramidal round columnar rounded vase Figure 14.7. Common tree and shrub forms. 14-7 CHAPTER 14 Landscape Design Drawing a Landscape Plan Prepare a Map If you want the fun and satisfaction of preparing your own Prepare a scale map of your property (Figure 14.8). Use graph landscape plan, this section will help you draw a plan that paper, with one square equaling a certain number of feet, or embodies the elements of good design. These steps will enable draw to scale using a ruler or engineer’s scale as follows: you to develop a final plan that can be implemented over several Measuring Device Small Lot Large Lot years as time and money permit. The landscape design planning Engineer’s scale 1 inch = 10 ft 1 inch = 20 ft questionnaire at the end of this chapter is a good place to start. It will help you assess your site and your needs. Ruler 1 inch = 8 ft 1 inch = 16 ft property line neighbor’s view of woods vegetable garden neighbor’s under- existing developed pin oak yard low, needs fill P DR K G LR drainage S H neighbor’s neighbor’s house house drainage sewer line property line N sidewalk existing planting strip existing maple maple road Figure 14.8. Property map. 14-8  Landscape Design CHAPTER 14 The map should include the following: Property lines North arrow Scale used vegetables living area Contour of the land (Use an arrow to show direction of surface water flow.) Existing landscape features—house, garage, other buildings, trees, walks, and driveways existing Septic tank, sewer lines, or underground power lines pin oak Views (Point arrows in the direction of each good view.) Doors, windows, porches, and rooms childrens play (G = garage, K = kitchen, etc.) P Undesirable features of your own or adjoining property DR K private Identify use areas and place them on the map. G LR side yard The following use areas are common in residential laundry H landscapes: S Private-use area (may include cooking and eating area) Children’s play area Front yard Public area Service and work area (e.g., laundry) driveway public Fruit and vegetable garden N Flower beds Walks and driveways Garden pool existing sidewalk existing Choose those use areas that are appropriate for your design maple planting strip maple and add others if needed. Refer to the landscape design planning road questionnaire for additional use items to consider. Fit them together considering traffic flow and how the space Figure 14.9. Placing use areas on a map. will be used (Figure 14.9). How will people move from one area to another or from the house to outside areas? Will outdoor areas be functional in relation to the house? Will you make use of existing features such as views or changes in the terrain? Try different combinations in relation to rooms of the house, surrounding areas, and potential views. shrubs Develop the Landscape Plan flowers In this step, your landscape plan begins to take shape. Select deciduous evergreen combination border the most appropriate landscape based on the uses identified tree tree in the previous step. Use landscape symbols to indicate trees clipped hedge and shrubs (Figure 14.10). Draw the symbols to scale so they represent the actual amount of space involved (Figure 14.11). single shrub For example, a mature white pine has a spread of approximately 20 feet, so make the symbol represent 20 feet. unclipped hedge On your map, indicate driveways, walks, other structures, and plants. Indicate where plant masses are needed to separate fence and gate areas; screen undesirable views; and provide shade, windbreaks, and beauty. At this point, do not attempt to name trees and shrubs. Rather, think in terms of plant masses that will serve a group of three trees stepping-stone walk particular purpose and tie areas together into a unified design. Keep in mind the design elements discussed in this chapter. Figure 14.10. Landscape symbols. 14-9 CHAPTER 14 Landscape Design flowers vegetables living area existing pin oak sandbox P DR K G LR laundry S H lawn N existing sidewalk existing maple maple road Figure 14.11. Sample landscape plan. To confirm that your proposed scheme is practical, make Is there a private living area? Is it screened from neighbors, sure you can answer the following questions satisfactorily: the service area, and other buildings? Is the driveway design pleasing, useful, and safe? Is the Is the clothesline near the laundry? entrance easily accessible? Is there a turnaround? Is there Is the gas meter, power meter, or oil tank easily accessible guest parking? and, if necessary, screened from public view? Are walkways convenient? Are guests directed to the front Has home security been considered? door? Will the septic tank, sewer lines, or drainage fields interfere Will the landscape be attractive from the living room, picture with planting shade trees? window, porch, and dining room? Will it be attractive all Do all parts of the landscape fit together into a unified plan? year? 14-10  Landscape Design CHAPTER 14 Planting key 11 10 1. Japanese yew 8 9 2. Japanese holly 16 3. Boxwood 4. Barberry vegetables 5. Azaleas 6. Pin oak 13 7. Pink dogwood 7 8. White dogwood 9. White pine 8 6 10. Chinese holly 14 11. Perennial border 14 11 8 12. Abelia 11 13. Flowering quince 14 14. Nandina 2 2 15. Flowering crabapple 2 5 16. Lilac 12 2 12 2 P 17. Existing maple 8 2 DR 2 K 5 G LR laundry 16 S H 4 8 2 2 2 1 1 1 3 3 1 15 17 17 sidewalk road Figure 14.12. Landscape plan with planting key. Create a Final Plan and Planting Key Table 14.1. Sample specifications for a tree or shrub mass. Specific plants for your landscape design can be selected Purpose Shade, Background, Hedge, Screen, or Accent in many ways. For example, you may choose to initially con- Height Low, medium, or tall centrate on the desired cultural needs of the plants or desired Form Spreading, upright, arching, or globe Seasonal interest Fruit, flowers, and foliage height, but you will eventually need to address several other Type Needleleaf evergreen, broadleaf evergreen, or purposes when selecting plants (Table 14.1). deciduous Next, select a plant or group of plants to meet your specifi- Cultural needs Shade, sunlight, and moisture requirements cations. Consult garden books and nursery catalogs or visit a Maintenance Pruning and insect- or disease-control local nursery. Become familiar with plant materials and discuss requirements the plan with nursery growers. Try not to get too bogged down in this process! Review the section on “Evaluating Landscape Sustainability” before making final plant selections. Renovating an Established Landscape Finally, on your map, designate specific plantings and develop Making major changes or renovating a mature landscape can the planting key (Figure 14.12). By following the guidelines in be a challenge. If you move to a home with a mature landscape, this chapter, you will create a pleasing landscape. Remember, it’s a good idea to live with the design for a full year before decid- however, that plans are made to be changed, and a landscape ing which shrubs and trees to keep and which ones to remove or is a work in progress. transplant. When making these judgments, keep the previously described design principles in mind. 14-11 CHAPTER 14 Landscape Design The following questions may help you decide how to reno- Are plants placed in ideal growing conditions (e.g., correct vate an overgrown, mature landscape: light and drainage)? Has a site analysis been done? Were plants properly sited so that, when mature, they What is important in the landscape and what is expendable? complement rather than stress each other? If the landscape has ample shade, could more shade-loving Have drainage problems been corrected to provide adequate plants be incorporated? water penetration? Does the landscape have seasonal color and interest? Was the landscape planned to help prevent erosion? Have trees and shrubs become so overgrown they block light Has water runoff been handled properly? from desirable plants that need sun? Has the landscape been developed to reduce the need for Are your houseplants getting as much light as they used to, high-nitrogen fertilizers? or are mature outdoor trees or shrubs blocking their light? Does plant selection take into consideration the effect of Do shrubs crowd each other? Do they block views from sunlight on summer cooling and winter heat? windows? Should they be pruned or removed? What are Has the landscape created a better environment for people? some innovative ways to prune overgrown shrubs? Does the landscape attract beneficial wildlife? Have use areas changed? Could old play areas be incorpo- rated into the landscape differently? Creating landscapes that are both environmentally sound Could raised beds be incorporated to make gardening easier? and aesthetically pleasing can be difficult. However, there are Has a security check been made? Are mature plants conceal- many steps you can take to achieve both beauty and environ- ing doors and windows? Have plants been thinned to create mental enhancement. The following design strategies all lead visibility? to a sustainable landscape: Is there enough time and help to accomplish a major Take advantage of existing terrain. renovation? Capitalize on microclimates. How long will the renovation take? What should be done Select plants that are appropriate for your growing first? environment. Select plants with disease and insect resistance. Incorporate mulches to suppress weed growth and reduce Evaluating Landscape Sustainability runoff and water evaporation from soil. In order to create a truly sustainable garden, you may need to change your expectation of what a landscape ought to look like. Perfect lawns, plants, and fruits are all desirable. However, For More Information by adjusting your expectations slightly, you can reduce the labor Ground Covers for KY Landscapes (HO-78) and chemical inputs needed in your landscape. The following Perennials for Shady Locations (HO-77) checklist gives guidelines for determining your landscape’s Perennials for Sunny Locations (HO-76) sustainability: Annual Flowers (HO-65) What are the environmental benefits of the landscape? Landscape Design with Plants: Creating Outdoor Rooms Are mulches used to maintain soil fertility and earthworm (HO-62) activity? Were plants selected properly to reduce pruning, spraying, and fertilizing? Revised 01-2024 Landscape Design Planning Questionnaire This questionnaire will help you organize your thoughts when designing or renovating your landscape. It may bring to mind topics you have not considered and will give you a better idea of how to design a landscape to meet your needs. Site information First, gather information about your existing yard to see how it will affect your plan. Color of house: ____________________ Architectural style: Desirable views: Undesirable views: Overhead utilities: Unique features: 1. Soil: 6. Are retaining walls needed?  Clay  No  Sandy  Yes: Where?  Rocky  Compacted ___________________________________________________________  Surface Rocks ___________________________________________________________ 2. Direction of winds: ___________________________________________________________ Summer _________ ___________________________________________________________ Winter _________ __________________________________________________________ 3. Are wind screens needed?  No ___________________________________________________________  Yes: Where? 7. Are there soggy areas (high water table)? ___________________________________________________________  No  Yes: Where? ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ 4. Are sound buffers needed?  No ___________________________________________________________  Yes: Where? 8. Where will water drain? ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 5. Are there elevation differences?  Minimal  Moderate  Severe slopes 9. Is a French drain required? 13. Existing site features and structures:  No  Yes ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 10. Sun exposure: ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ 14. Existing walks:  Brick ___________________________________________________________  Cement  Gravel 11. Where is your yard too hot in the summer?  Stone  Bark ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 15. Is there a parking strip?  No ___________________________________________________________  Yes: Where? ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 12. Existing trees, shrubs, and surface roots: ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 16. Preferred level of maintenance: ___________________________________________________________  High  Medium __________________________________________________________  Low ___________________________________________________________ Landscape Design Planning Questionnaire, continued Design considerations Now, consider how the landscape will be used. 17. Who will use your yard? 19. Preferred shapes (for lawns, walks, decks):  Adults  Rectangular  Children  45° angles  Elderly  Circles  Pets  Straight lines  Curving/free-form 18. Preferred style:  Combination  Formal  Semiformal 20. Type of front entryway:  Informal  Straight to the door  Theme (e.g., English, Japanese, or natural)  Meandering  Private courtyard 21. Outdoor structures/features: 26. Do you need off-street parking for guests?  Patio roof  Cars  Raised planters  RVs  Children’s play area  Other:  Satellite dish  Dog pen/run ___________________________________________________________  Storage shed ___________________________________________________________  BBQ area  Gazebo ___________________________________________________________  Deck ___________________________________________________________  Fence  Swimming pool __________________________________________________________  Spa/hot tub  Sculpture ___________________________________________________________  Boulders  Dry creek 27. How will you water?  Mounds/berms  Garden hose  Pond  Sprinkler system  Bench  Drip irrigation  Fountain  Waterfall and stream 28. Photos can help you visualize what you want. Do you have  Greenhouse photographs of your yard?  Other:  Yes  No ___________________________________________________________ 29. Finally, think about the types of plants that will meet your ___________________________________________________________ needs. What type of plants do you like? ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 22. What size patio/deck do you need? __________________________________________________________  2–4 people  4–8 people ___________________________________________________________  8–12 people  12+ people 30. Broadleaf evergreen trees and shrubs:  Flowering 23. Do you want walkways connecting parts of your yard?  Nonflowering  Yes  No 31. Deciduous trees and shrubs:  Flowering 24. Do you want outdoor lighting?  Nonflowering  Landscape  Conifer trees  Security  Fruit trees  Shade trees 25. What items need storage space?  Junipers  Garden equipment  Vines  Garbage cans  Roses  Other:  Annual flowers  Perennial flowers ___________________________________________________________  Vegetables  Herbs ___________________________________________________________  Other: ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 32. Do you like fragrant plants? 37. Is anyone in your family allergic to bees?  Yes  Yes  No  No 33. Favorite colors: 38. Are deer a problem?  Yes ___________________________________________________________  No ___________________________________________________________ 39. What special garden areas do you want? ___________________________________________________________  Vegetables ___________________________________________________________  Annuals  Roses __________________________________________________________  Perennials  Herbs ___________________________________________________________  Wildlife/native  Orchard 34. Least favorite colors:  Shade ___________________________________________________________  Rock garden  Cut flowers ___________________________________________________________  Fragrance ___________________________________________________________  Wheelchair-accessible  Other: ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 35. How much lawn do you want? ___________________________________________________________  None  Small __________________________________________________________  Average ___________________________________________________________  Large Where will the lawn be? 40. Other comments: ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ 36. Is anyone in your family allergic to specific plants?  Yes  No