University of Kentucky College of , HO-105 Food and Environment Cooperative Extension Service Landscape Design Kentucky Master Gardener Manual Chapter 17

By Jan McNeilan, retired Extension consumer horticulturist, and Ann Marie VanDerZanden, former Extension master gardener state coor- dinator, both of Oregon State University. Adapted for use in Kentucky by Rick Durham, consumer extension specialist and master gardener state coordinator.

andscape designs differ depending on how the landscape In this chapter: will be used. Although the principles are the same, a home- owner who wants an aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance Planning...... 242 Llandscape will create a design very different than that of an avid Parts of a Landscape...... 244 gardener whose main purpose in life is to spend time in the . This chapter is not meant to define the art of landscape design Elements and Principles of Design ...... 246 but rather to help you take a realistic approach to landscape plan- Selection...... 247 ning. Your end design should meet your needs and incorporate Drawing a Landscape Plan...... 251 principles of sustainability into an evolving landscape. Kentucky gardeners are fortunate to be able to use a wide variety Renovating an Established Landscape...... 254 of plant materials to create landscapes that meet their needs. This Evaluating Landscape Sustainability ...... 255 available diverse plant material can be used to create outdoor rooms with canopies of trees; walls of shrubs and vines; and carpets of For More Information...... 256 groundcovers, perennials, and annuals to provide color and interest. Landscape Design Planning Before beginning, consider what type of landscape will suit your Questionnaire...... 257 needs. Landscapes reflect many approaches. Examples of landscape types are low-maintenance, water-wise, formal, informal, native, wildlife-attracting, small space/container, shade, and specialty/ collection. Avid gardeners often are collectors who consider plant arrange- ment and placement as their garden develops. While adhering to basic design principles, landscape design for these gardeners is an ongoing process. Just as seasons change, their landscapes take on new looks to include new structures and gathered from nurs- eries, garden centers, friends, and neighbors. Merely planting trees and shrubs is not landscaping. Designing a landscape gives you an opportunity to create habitats for people, plants, and wildlife. As you try to preserve clean air, clean water, and landfill space, your challenge is to create a landscape that is both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sound. A sustainable landscape requires minimal inputs of labor, water, fertilizer, and to thrive. Creating a sustainable landscape means working toward a thoughtful balance between resources used and results gained. By factoring in environmental considerations, you can create a pleas- ant place that is part of an environmental solution rather than an environmental problem.

Cooperative Extension Service | Agriculture and Natural Resources | Family and Consumer Sciences | 4-H Youth Development | Community and Economic Development 242 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

Planning structures such as fences, walls, patios, or decks to enhance the human environment The smaller your house, grounds, or and make the landscape more enjoyable. budget, the greater the need for correct Finally, the site analysis will help you and complete planning. Every square foot select plants that best fit your landscape’s of space and every dollar must produce design and purpose. maximum results. Plan for the best use of the site, the least environmental impact, Factors Influencing and minimum upkeep. A master plan is essential to ensure that Landscape Design all work done on the property will blend Factors influencing landscape design into the desired final outcome. Keep in include property characteristics; neighbor- mind that landscape development can be a hood sights and sounds; climate; and family long-term process within the framework of activities, growth, and change. your plan. There is no need to develop your Property characteristics entire lot at once. Completing the land- scape over a five-year period is a feasible In laying out a design, preserve all of your approach. This time frame allows you to site’s best natural features, such as mature evaluate plants as they grow and mature trees, brooks, ponds, rock outcroppings, and generally is more manageable finan- good soil, turf, and interesting variations in cially than doing everything at once. terrain. These natural elements affect the Grading may be needed for a new home ease of construction and enhance landscape site. If you must have grading work done, possibilities. consider ways to save topsoil and protect Carefully survey the area to determine existing trees and vegetation from construc- whether site conditions are a problem or tion damage and soil compaction. they can be incorporated into your design. Examples of problems are thin, over- Site Analysis crowded trees or unstable slopes that may interfere with landscape construction. You For a new landscape, a thorough site also may have to contend with microcli- analysis can help you develop a plan to mates such as windy areas, low places with enhance and maintain your property’s cold air pockets, or areas with poor soil and sustainability. It’s also a useful first step in inadequate water drainage. renovating and changing an existing land- Changes in elevation can add inter- scape. See the landscape design planning est and variety to home landscapes. The questionnaire at the end of this chapter for character of the land—its hills, slopes, and ideas. trees—should determine the basic land- A site analysis will tell you what you have scape pattern. A hilly, wooded lot lends to work with. A thorough understanding itself to an informal or natural design, with of your conditions is important, because in large areas left in their natural state. In such a sustainable landscape, native and intro- a setting, large trees can be retained. Protect duced plants must be well suited to existing native plantings whenever possible. light, moisture, and soil conditions. Although natural slope variations are Your site analysis also will help you an asset, avoid creating too many artificial make the best use of available space in the slopes. Avoid excessive use of terraces or most attractive way possible, while at the retaining walls. If these features are neces- same time enabling you to consider the sary to facilitate construction or control environmental impact of your landscape water drainage, design them to blend into plan. Make the most of the site’s natural the natural terrain. features and advantages. Be sure to include Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 243

house house house

Figure 1. Daily light pattern. Speckled areas indicate shade. morning noon afternoon

Neighborhood sights and sounds are shorter in summer than in winter. Keep good views open and screen out Northern exposures receive the least light those that are undesirable. Often a well- and therefore are coolest. East and west placed shrub or two provides necessary exposures receive more light; western expo- screening. Additionally, well-placed plant- sures are warmer than eastern ones because ings can act as noise barriers. they receive afternoon light. Southern exposures receive the most light and tend to Climate be warmest. Climate includes sunlight, all forms of The main rooms of a house should ben- precipitation, wind, and temperature. In efit from winter sun and summer breezes. the case of a new home, these factors affect You can control the amount of sunlight and how the house is placed on the lot, how the shade by the location of buildings, fences, land is used, and what is planted. Don’t fight and plants. You also can take advantage of the climate; capitalize on its advantages. In shade created by structures or plants on warm regions, enlarge the outdoor liv- your neighbors’ property. ing area. In cold regions, plant so that the Trees have an especially strong effect winter scene is enjoyed from the inside. For on sunlight. When locating trees in your example, evergreens and hedges are pictur- landscape design, consider keeping a sunny esque when covered with snow, ice, or rain area for a vegetable garden while maximiz- droplets. ing shady areas for the house and patio or It is important to study the amount and deck. Deciduous trees (those that shed their location of both sun and shade because leaves) shade the house in summer and individual people respond to them differ- admit sun in winter. ently. Patterns of sun and shade change, Plant trees at a 45-degree angle away Figure 2. Tree planted depending on the time of day and season from the corners of the house (Figure 2); at a 45° angle from the (Figure 1). The sun is higher and shadows when mature they will accent the build- corner of a house. ing. Trees should not block views from windows. Remember that having too many trees shuts out sunlight and reduces air circulation. When renovating an old land- scape, consider how light will change when plants or trees are removed. 244 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

Maintenance requirements require less spraying; drought-tolerant During the early design phase, decide plants require less watering. how much time and energy you want to • Keep the design simple. spend on maintenance. Some people enjoy puttering about the yard and may desire a Remember that low-maintenance prac- high-maintenance design. Others, however, tices are often also sustainable landscape want a landscape that requires minimal practices. maintenance. Generally, the simpler the Family activities, growth, and change landscape, the less there is to maintain. A low-maintenance landscape is the How your landscape will be used should goal of most homeowners. The following be a determining factor in its design. strategies will help you reduce maintenance Analyze your family activities and design a requirements: landscape that will mature with the family. • Limit the size of the lawn. Don’t plan a static landscape; it would not • Use groundcovers, bark chips, and other work as your family’s needs change. mulches for . • Use paving or gravel in heavily traveled Parts of a Landscape areas. Provide edging strips of brick, con- crete, or bender board for flower beds A landscape is made up of several parts. and shrub borders to ease mowing. Some of these—private use areas, children’s • Use fences, walls, or informal plantings play areas, front yards, public areas, and (instead of clipped formal hedges) for service and work areas—are discussed in screening. this section. • Design raised flower beds for easy access and to help control weeds. Private Use Areas • Use native plant materials. The private use area or outdoor living • Install an underground irrigation system room is an important part of the American if you get little summer rain. home. No yard is too small to have a private • Use small flower beds. Use flowering sitting area where family and guests can trees and shrubs for additional color. gather. Where possible, access from the • Be selective when choosing plant materi- house to the outdoor area should be easy als. Compact varieties require less prun- (Figure 3). ing; insect- and disease-resistant varieties

Figure 3. Use areas in a landscape. private private private area area area service area service area service area

house house house

public area public area public area Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 245

When designing private areas, consider Deck or patio—The center of activity for home security. Motion sensor lights can an outdoor living area often is a space with protect these areas at night, and garden or patio furniture and sometimes shrubs for openness and visibility can pre- a grill or outdoor cooking area. It may be a vent them from being used for concealment porch, deck, or terrace next to the house, during the day. For vulnerable entry points or it may be a shady area nearby. It may be to your property or home, choose defensive decked, paved, or in turf. Flagstone, brick, plants that are thorny or difficult to walk concrete blocks, and stamped concrete are through. common surfaces. Consider the following guidelines when The size of this area depends on its planning outdoor private living areas: expected use and the type and amount of Privacy—Enclose the area from pub- furniture desired. A 10x10-ft area holds four lic view and nearby neighbors. Properly chairs and is about the minimum size for grouped shrubs and trees work well. For comfortably accommodating four people. a small area, use a trellis, containers with Increase the size if you want space for more vines, or a fence. Screen the area from work chairs or a picnic table. areas such as clotheslines, woodpiles, and garden sheds. Children’s Play Area Year-round interest—Plants in the outdoor living area should be varied and provide The play area can be part of the outdoor interest throughout the year, especially if living area or separate from it. Consider the area is visible from the house. For winter your children’s ages and activities to deter- interest, select shrubs and trees with color- mine the size and surface of the play area. ful bark, evergreen foliage, or colorful fruit. For very young children, a small area The rest of the year, use annuals, perennials, enclosed by a fence near the kitchen or shrubs, and trees to create interest. Take a living area is desirable. As children grow seasonal inventory of your proposed plant up, you’ll need to adjust the design to meet list to make sure it includes year-round changing recreational needs. interest. Pools, stone steps, paving, walls, bird feeders and baths, and other archi- tectural features do not change with the The area in front of homes traditionally seasons. They provide interest throughout has been left more or less open so passersby the year. can view the home. On small lots, it has Climate control—Weather control become increasingly popular to screen the extends the outdoor living area’s useful- front yard with fencing, shrubs, or vertical ness. Evergreen trees provide year-round plantings. Privacy may be desirable when screening and shade, while deciduous trees a picture window faces the street or when screen the area from hot summer sun but the front yard is used for outdoor sitting. allow maximum winter sun for solar heat. Where space is limited, a tall, attractive Windbreaks reduce wind. An awning or fence can provide privacy and a background trellis-type roof can protect against inclem- for shrubs and smaller plants. ent weather. If space allows, a garden pool Again, consider home security when or fountain can convey the effect of cool- designing your landscape. It may be appro- ness during summer with the added benefit priate to use fencing that provides a sense of attracting wildlife. 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. 246 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

Public Area Rhythm and line—Continuity within the This is the area seen from the street. The landscape and integration of different ele- landscape in this area should create a sense ments into the design affect rhythm and of spaciousness. If you want the front yard to line. Effective use of repetition can direct be part of the public area, keep the lawn or the eye or a person through the landscape groundcover open and place shrubs to the and create a sense of unity among different sides of the house and in foundation plant- landscape spaces (Figure 5). ings. When selecting shrubs to frame the front door, consider their texture, color, size, and shape so they enhance the total effect but do not block doors or windows. Placing tall trees in the backyard and medium-size ones on the sides and in front is effective. The house should be the focal point of the view. Service and Work Areas An area screened from major views is good for service and work areas; such as Figure 5. Rhythm and line. The plantings direct space for garbage cans, access to utility the eye toward the house. meters, tool storage, wood storage, piles, propagating structures, small green- Balance—The two common types of bal- houses, kennels, and clotheslines. ance in landscapes are symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical balance is most Elements and Principles of Design common in formal landscapes. It has an axis, and everything on one side is dupli- Landscape design has no hard and fast cated or mirrored on the other side (Figure rules because each landscape is a unique 6a). Asymmetrical balance uses different creation. However, the following design objects on each side of the axis, but the end principles will help you create an aestheti- result still is a similar visual mass on either cally pleasing and useful landscape: side (Figure 6b). Simplicity —Simplicity is achieved when Proportion—This principle refers to the different parts of the design are grouped relationship between different elements or arranged to appear as a single unit. For within the landscape. The relationships example, you can group plants of similar col- to consider are plants to buildings, plants ors or textures, or mass three or more plants to other plants, and plants to people. To of the same species together (Figure 4). achieve correct proportion, always cre- ate designs based on the mature height of plants. Figure 4. Lack of simplicity (a) and simplicity (b). Focal point—Focal points give the eye a Although 4b contains more elements than 4a, place to rest when viewing the landscape as they are grouped to create a more simple design. a whole. A focal point may be a plant speci- men, garden accessory, or water feature. The front door often is the focal point of the public use area; if so, design the landscape to enhance it.

(a) lack of simplicity (b) simplicity Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 247

(a) symmetrical balance (b) asymmetrical balance

Figure 6. Symmetrical balance (a) and asym- metrical balance (b). Plant Selection Before selecting plants, consider your site and determine what, if any, environ- This section discusses some of the fac- mental conditions exist that might cause tors involved in choosing the right plants problems. Carefully completing a site analy- for your landscape. For specifics on plant sis will help. To what elements will plants selection and care, see Chapter 13, “Annual be exposed (full sun, shade, wind, reflected and Perennial Flowers” (HO-102), and heat)? What are the soil conditions (fertile Chapter 15, “Lawn Management” (AGR- or poor, high or low pH, depth, drainage)? 206). Extension publications such as Plant Based on this evaluation, choose plants Materials for Landscaping (PNW 500) also that are adapted to your specific growing are helpful when planning a landscape. (See environment. “For More Information.”) For example, some plants, such as rho- Well-chosen plantings are necessary dodendrons and azaleas, prefer acid soils to achieve your desired landscape effect. (low pH). Most other woody plants grow Thousands of varieties of trees, shrubs, well across a wide range of soil pH, from vines, and perennials are available, but acid to alkaline. If your soil is extremely acid remember: plants are not merely ornamen- or alkaline, you many need to amend it to tal accessories. Their masses define space in adjust the pH, depending on what plants the yard and, consequently, the silhouettes you want to grow. that produce . Therefore, when selecting plants, consider both their Insect and Disease Resistance cultivation requirements and their aesthetic value. When selecting plants, look for variet- The best advice in plant selection is to ies that are insect- and disease-resistant in find the right plant for the right place. The order to eliminate unnecessary applications U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) of and . You can plant hardiness zones are a starting point, obtain resistance information from plant since they are based on winter tempera- catalogs, garden centers, nurseries, and tures. In determining where a plant will sur- extension offices. vive, however, you need to consider other factors as well, including frost occurrence, seasonal rainfall distribution, humidity, soil characteristics, water availability, and dura- tion and intensity of light. These factors may be more important to a plant’s survival than are winter temperatures. Every plant toler- ates a range of conditions for each of these factors. Their combined effect determines true plant adaptability. 248 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

Understanding Plant Factors Affecting Plant Survival: Hardiness Zones Adaptability A plant species that flourishes in one Factors such as temperature are largely part of a given USDA plant hardiness zone beyond your control but do have predict- is likely to be adaptable in other parts of able yearly averages. Of the major factors the same zone or in a warmer zone. Some that govern plant adaptability, frost dates, gardeners question a zone rating when a length of growing season, and minimum plant fails to survive its first winter. A single winter temperatures are among the hardest test, however, is rarely reliable. A small, to control. young plant may be tender but may become quite hardy as it grows older. Other condi- Frost tions also affect the degree of hardiness. No Average first and last frost dates have single winter is quite average; each differs in been calculated for each plant hardiness suddenness and severity of freezing. zone. These dates give an indication of Just because a plant may survive in a when to expect the first frost of fall as well given zone does not necessarily mean it is as the last frost of winter or spring. recommended for planting in that zone. However, air temperature and move- For example, using the USDA hardiness ment are important factors in frost occur- zone system, crape myrtle, Lagerstroemia rence and may create microclimates within indica, usually survives as a low-growing, your garden. Because warm air rises and semi-hardy specimen in the colder areas of cold air sinks, cool air tends to accumulate zone 6. It develops and flowers normally, in low spots and in areas with minimal air however, in zone 7. This species, therefore, movement, thereby creating frost pockets. is properly recommended only for zones Species that are marginally hardy in a given 7 and above, although it is often used as a zone should not be planted in frost pockets. semi-hardy plant in zone 6. Rainfall Many ways exist to develop microcli- mates to allow a tender plant to grow in an Total average rainfall has a significant otherwise inhospitable zone. For example, effect on plant growth and development, you can control soil fertility and water avail- and rainfall distribution is equally impor- ability to some extent to delay plant growth tant. Some areas receive substantial rainfall, in spring or to hasten hardiness in fall. but it may not occur during the growing Windbreaks can provide protection from season. Where summers are dry, plants cold winter winds. Raised beds allow soil to may need supplemental water in order to warm earlier in the spring. survive. Using species that need little water is one way to reduce the amount of irriga- tion needed. Soil and moisture conditions Good soil and proper moisture condi- tions are crucial to plants’ survival. Many plants respond unfavorably when their soil environment changes. For example, some can tolerate extremely dry or wet condi- tions while others cannot; some do well in poor soil while others do not. Nursery- grown plants are not inexpensive, so pro- vide the best growing conditions possible for each species. Group plants of similar growing requirements together to conserve water. Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 249

Soil characteristics are a major factor in Select plants with more than one feature determining which plants will thrive in your during the seasons. For example, choose a garden. The ideal garden soil isloam —a tree with blossoms in April, beautiful fall or light, crumbly mixture with approximately midsummer color, and exfoliating (shed- equal parts sand, silt, and clay. Good garden ding) bark for winter interest. soil includes at least 4 percent organic mat- ter. Organic matter is important because Plant size it promotes better soil water and nutri- Consider the mature size of plants you ent retention, air exchange (porosity) and select for your landscape. A common friability or looseness to allow good root mistake is to select plants that soon become penetration. Garden soils can be altered, too large for their location. The drastic but it is important to complete a soil test pruning that then becomes necessary adds first to determine what improvements your to the cost of maintenance and may reduce soil needs. the grace and beauty of the specimen. Overgrown plants that are left unpruned Degree of sun or shade alter the balance and accent of a design. In The angle of the sun in relation to the addition, they may partially hide the house earth varies from summer to winter. The instead of complementing it. sun’s angle not only affects day length but also the shadows in a garden. These shad- Plant form ows determine the amount of sun that Shrubs are woody plants that grow to a plants receive and thus may have a signifi- height of 3 to 12 feet. They may have one or cant effect on their growth. several stems with foliage extending nearly Slopes that face south or southwest get to the ground. Common forms include the more heat during the day than those that following: face north or northeast. Southern expo- • Low, spreading (e.g., juniper species) sure slopes dry out more quickly and often • Round or upright (e.g., euonymous, pho- require supplemental water. Taking advan- tinia, and forsythia) tage of different exposures in the landscape • Vase (e.g., Vanhoutte spirea) may extend your growing season. • Pyramidal (e.g., hybrid tea roses) • Columnar (e.g., arborvitae species) Aesthetic Considerations Trees are woody plants that typically Texture, seasonal foliage color, flow- grow more than 12 feet tall and have only ers, fruit, and bark can provide touches of one main stem or trunk. Thehead or leafy beauty. You even can select plants to relate portion of the tree develops a typical form to exterior house colors. such as one of the following: Try to have some color in the yard • Round or oval (e.g., maple, oak, and pine) year-round. Flowering trees provide pastels • Vase (e.g., elm) in spring; beds of perennials and annuals • Pendulous (e.g., weeping willow, cherry, furnish vivid hues in summer; trees and and birch) shrubs whose leaves turn yellow, orange, • Pyramidal (e.g., spruce, fir, and hemlock) and crimson brighten gray autumn days; the • Columnar (e.g., hop hornbeam) bark and fruit of some species is attractive in winter. Interesting year-round effects can also be created by strongly contrasting features. 250 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

irregular prostrate mound or spreading oval pendulous

pyramidal round columnar rounded vase

Figure 7. Common Mature shrubs and trees are usually Groundcovers such as turf, low-spreading tree and shrub forms. more open and spreading than young shrubs, creeping plants, and prostrate vines plants. For example, an oak tree’s head may are essential landscaping materials. Many be a pyramid shape when it is young, an designs no longer include turf but instead irregular oval in middle age, and a spreading use hardy groundcovers. Groundcovers also vase form in old age. are grown on banks that are too rough or Trees are long-lived and relatively inex- steep to mow and under trees where grass pensive in terms of initial cost and main- does not grow satisfactorily. tenance when compared to lawns, flower beds, hedges, and many other landscape Plant texture features. In the past, many builders commit- A plant’s texture depends on the size and ted costly errors by destroying trees when arrangement of its foliage. Plants with large, establishing new residential subdivisions. widely spaced leaves have coarse texture. Most real estate developers now appreciate Plants with small, closely spaced leaves have the value of trees and attempt to save them fine texture. Texture can vary by season, when land is graded before house con- depending on whether a plant is deciduous struction. However, trees that are old and or evergreen. diseased or improperly located should be Some variation in texture is needed removed and replaced with more suitable to make a landscape interesting. Avoid specimens. extremes in texture, however. Some common forms of shrubs and trees are shown in Figure 7. Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 251

Drawing a Landscape Plan Prepare a Map If you want the fun and satisfaction of Prepare a scale map of your property preparing your own landscape plan, this sec- (Figure 8). Use graph paper, with one square tion will help you draw a plan that embodies equaling a certain number of feet, or draw the elements of good design. These steps will to scale using a ruler or engineer’s scale as enable you to develop a final plan that can be follows: implemented over several years as time and Measuring money permit. The landscape design plan- Device Small lot Large lot ning questionnaire at the end of this chapter Engineer’s scale 1 inch = 10 ft 1 inch = 20 ft is a good place to start. It will help you assess Ruler 1 inch = 8 ft 1 inch = 16 ft your site and your needs. Following are the steps to take to draw a landscape plan:

Figure 8. property line Property map.

neighbor’s view of woods vegetable garden

neighbor’s under- existing developed pin oak yard

low, needs ll

P DR

K LR G drainage S H neighbor’s neighbor’s house house drainage

sewer line property line

N

sidewalk existing planting strip existing maple maple road 252 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

The map should include the following: • Doors, windows, porches, and rooms • Property lines (G = garage, K = kitchen, etc.) • North arrow • Undesirable features of your own or • Scale used adjoining property • Contour of the land (use an arrow to show direction of surface water flow.) Identify use areas and place them on the • Existing landscape features—house, map. garage, other buildings, trees, walks, and The following use areas are common in driveways residential landscapes: • Septic tank, sewer lines, or underground • Private use area (may include cooking power lines and eating area) • Views (Point arrows in the direction of • Children’s play area each good view.) • Front yard • Public area Figure 9. Placing use areas on a map. • Service and work area (e.g., laundry) • Fruit and vegetable garden • Flower beds • Walks and driveways • Garden pool

Choose those use areas that are appro- vegetables living area priate for your design and add others if needed. Refer to the landscape design plan- ning questionnaire for additional use items to consider. Fit them together considering traffic flow existing and how the space will be used (Figure 9). pin oak How will people move from one area to another or from the house to outside areas? childrens play Will outdoor areas be functional in relation P to the house? Will you make use of existing DR features such as views or changes in the ter- rain? Try different combinations in relation K private to rooms of the house, surrounding areas, LR side yard and potential views. laundry G H S Develop the Landscape Plan In this step, your landscape plan begins to take shape. Select the most appropriate landscape from those you developed in Step 2. Use landscape symbols to indicate trees and shrubs (Figure 10). Draw the symbols driveway public N to scale so they represent the actual amount of space involved (Figure 11). For example, a mature white pine has a spread of approxi- mately 20 feet, so make the symbol repre- sent 20 feet.

existing sidewalk existing maple planting strip maple road Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 253

On your map, indicate driveways, walks, shrubs other structures, and plants. Indicate owers where plant masses are needed to sepa- deciduous evergreen combination border rate areas; screen undesirable views; and tree tree provide shade, windbreaks, and beauty. At clipped hedge this point, do not attempt to name trees Figure 10. single shrub and shrubs. Rather, think in terms of plant masses that will serve a particular purpose Landscape symbols. unclipped hedge and tie areas together into a unified design. Keep in mind the design elements dis- fence and gate cussed in this chapter. To confirm that your proposed scheme group of three trees stepping-stone walk is practical, make sure you can answer the following questions satisfactorily: • Is the driveway design pleasing, useful, Figure 11. Sample landscape plan. and safe? Is the entrance easily accessi- ble? Is there a turnaround? Is there guest parking? • Are walkways convenient? Are guests owers directed to the front door? vegetables • Will the landscape be attractive from the living room? picture window? porch? dining room? Will it be attractive all living area year? • Is there a private living area? Is it screened from neighbors? from the ser- existing vice area? from other buildings? pin oak • Is the clothesline near the laundry? sandbox • Is the gas meter, power meter, or oil tank easily accessible and, if necessary, screened from public view? P • Has home security been considered? DR • Will the septic tank, sewer lines, or drainage fields interfere with planting K shade trees? LR laundry G • Do all parts of the landscape fit together into a unified plan? S H

lawn N

existing sidewalk existing maple maple road 254 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

Create a Final Plan Renovating an Established and Planting Key Landscape Specific plants for your landscape design Making major changes or renovating a can be selected in many ways. For example, mature landscape can be a challenge. If you you may choose to initially concentrate on move to a home with a mature landscape, the desired cultural needs of the plants or it’s a good idea to live with the design for a desired height, but you will eventually need full year before deciding which shrubs and to address several other purposes when trees to keep and which ones to remove or selecting plants (Table 1). transplant. When making these judgments, keep the previously described design prin- Table 1. Sample specifications ciples in mind. for a tree or shrub mass. The following questions may help you Shade, background, hedge, decide how to renovate an overgrown, Purpose screen, or accent mature landscape: Height Low, medium, or tall • Has a site analysis been done? Form Spreading, upright, arching, or • What is important in the landscape and globe what is expendable? Seasonal Fruit, flowers, foliage interest • If the landscape has ample shade, Type Needleleaf evergreen, broadleaf could more shade-loving plants be evergreen, or deciduous incorporated? Cultural needs Shade, sunlight, and moisture • Does the landscape have seasonal color requirements and interest? Maintenance Pruning and insect- or disease- • Have trees and shrubs become so over- control requirements grown they block light from desirable plants that need sun? • Are your houseplants getting as much Next, select a plant or group of plants to light as they used to, or are mature out- meet your specifications. Consult garden door trees or shrubs blocking their light? books and nursery catalogs or visit a local • Do shrubs crowd each other? Do they nursery. Become familiar with plant materi- block views from windows? Should they als and discuss the plan with nursery grow- be pruned or removed? What are some ers. Try not to get too bogged down in this innovative ways to prune overgrown process! Review the section on “Evaluating shrubs? Landscape Sustainability” before making • Have use areas changed? Could old play final plant selections. areas be incorporated into the landscape Finally, on your map, designate specific differently? plantings and develop the planting key • Could raised beds be incorporated to (Figure 12). By following the guidelines make easier? in this chapter, you will create a pleasing • Has a security check been made? Are landscape. Remember, however, that plans mature plants concealing doors and are made to be changed, and a landscape is windows? Have plants been thinned to a work in progress. create visibility? • Is there enough time and help to accom- plish a major renovation? • How long will the renovation take? What should be done first? Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 255

11 10 8 16 9

vegetables

13 7

8 6 Figure 12. 14 Planting key Landscape plan with 14 11 1. Japanese yew 8 planting key. 2. Japanese holly 11 3. Boxwood 14 2 4. Barberry 2 5. Azaleas 2 5 6. Pin oak 12 2 7. Pink dogwood 12 2 P 8 2 8. White dogwood DR 2 9. White pine 10. Chinese holly K 5 11. Perennial border G LR 12. Abelia laundry 13. Flowering quince 16 S H 4 14. Nandina 8 2 15. Flowering crabapple 16. Lilac 2 2 1 1 17. Existing maple 1 3 3 1

15

17 sidewalk 17

road

Evaluating Landscape The following checklist gives guidelines for determining your landscape’s sustainability: Sustainability • What are the environmental benefits of In order to create a truly sustainable gar- the landscape? den, you may need to change your expecta- • Are mulches used to maintain soil fertil- tion of what a landscape ought to look like. ity and earthworm activity? Perfect lawns, plants, and fruits are all desir- • Were plants selected properly to reduce able. However, by adjusting your expecta- pruning, spraying, and fertilizing? tions slightly, you can reduce the labor and • Are plants placed in ideal growing condi- chemical inputs needed in your landscape. tions (e.g., correct light and drainage)? 256 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

• Were plants properly sited so that, when For More Information mature, they complement rather than stress each other? • HO-80: Spring, Summer and Fall Bulbs • Have drainage problems been corrected • HO-79: Ornamental Grasses for to provide adequate water penetration? Kentucky Landscapes • Was the landscape planned to help pre- • HO-78: Ground Covers for Ky vent erosion? Landscapes • Has water runoff been handled properly? • HO-77: Perennials for Shady Locations • Has the landscape been developed • HO-76: Perennials for Sunny Locations to reduce the need for high-nitrogen • HO-65: Annual Flowers fertilizers? • HO-62: Landscape Design with Plants: • Does plant selection take into consider- Creating Outdoor Rooms ation the effect of sunlight on summer • HO-61: Trees Shrubs Ground Covers cooling and winter heat? and Vines Suitable for Kentucky • Has the landscape created a better envi- Landscapes ronment for people? • HO-55: Guidelines for Choosing Hedges • Does the landscape attract beneficial for Kentucky Yards wildlife?

Creating landscapes that are both environmentally sound and aesthetically pleasing can be difficult. However, there are many steps you can take to achieve both beauty and environmental enhancement. The following design strategies all lead to a sustainable landscape: • Take advantage of existing terrain. • Capitalize on microclimates. • Select plants that are appropriate for your growing environment. • Select plants with disease and insect resistance. • Incorporate mulches to suppress weed growth and reduce runoff and water evaporation from soil. Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 257

Landscape Design Planning Questionnaire This questionnaire will help you organize your thoughts when designing or renovating your land-scape. 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 258 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

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, Oriental, or natural)  Meandering  Private courtyard Chapter 17 Landscape Design • 259

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 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 evergreens 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: ______260 • Landscape Design Chapter 17

32. Do you like fragrant plants? 36. Is anyone in your family allergic to specific plants?  Yes  Yes  No  No

33. Favorite colors: 37. Is anyone in your family allergic to bees?  Yes ______ No ______38. Are deer a problem? ______ Yes ______ No ______39. What special garden areas do you want?  Vegetables ______ Annuals  Roses 34. Least favorite colors:  Perennials ______ Herbs  Wildlife/native ______ ______ Shade  ______ 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: ______

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