Principles of Landscaping

1. Principles of Landscaping G groupings R repetition E edge (well defined) D Dominance

2. G groupings • Grouping is a landscaping principle that insists an observer will get the most visual pleasure from a given landscape if the pieces are placed in clusters • Groupings of species not in a line but in groups. • Odd numbers more appealing • Asymmetry- taller species in back, shorter in front

4. Odd numbers

5. Repetition • Pick a dominant flower color and use it throughout the landscape. • Use the same color or style of pot when planting potted annuals or perennials. • Tree and shrub varieties can be repeated throughout the landscape

9. Edge • Edge is pronounced and clear. • Dig deep and make mounds • S shape verses L shape • Mounds should be vertical and horizontal

15. Dominance • Big species scattered for focal point

22. In a flower/shrub bed, use coarser texture, larger plants in the back; sequencing to finer textured, smaller plants in the front inside-curve. [Figure 26]

23. Emphasis can be achieved through different sizes, bold shapes, groupings, and the unusual or unexpected. What is the focal point? Emphasis can be achieved through different sizes, bold shapes, groupings, and the unusual or unexpected. What is the focal point?

24. Trees reduce pollution • Trap and hold dust, ash, pollen and smoke • Absorb carbon dioxide • Produce oxygen • Reduces noise pollution • Cools cities

25. Conserve water and reduce soil erosion • Reduced runoff of water from storms • Reduced sedimentation in streams • Lesser chemicals transported to streams • Reduced soil erosion in cities

26. Energy conservation • Shade trees reduce need for air conditioning in summer (some studies indicate a 30% decreases in AC needs!) • Deciduous trees loose leaves in winter and allow sun to warm houses • Coniferous trees block winter wind

32. Create a Home Landscaping Plan • Create a landscape plan (focus on large and small trees) of a typical home on a lot that is approximately 200 x 200 feet (home is 50x24 and is facing south) • Your drawing should be completed on a piece of yellow paper with detailed labels. • Considerations: • Use the information in this powerpoint to create the “ideal” landscaped yard. • Prepare a detailed outline of how you accomplished the following goals: (Energy conservation, Water conservation/erosion, pollution control, and other “Benefits of Trees”). • Include a key of trees with defense of why the particular tree was used (disease resistance, beauty, wind control, noise) • Apply principles of GRED and “L” vs. “S” we discussed in class. • Include max height and width of each tree used on map

33. Complete design