Although soil can be amended, amendment is often costly and most times ineffective. It is always best to use plants that will thrive in the existing soil.
The type of soil determines the nutrients and moisture available to the plants. Issues of concern include the soil type, topography, and regional climate. Protect your resources by using sustainable design practicesĪ thorough inventory and analysis of the site is important to determine the environmental conditions for plant growth and the best use of the site.Take time into account for the growth and maintenance of plants.Pay attention to detail in the materials, the colors, and the surface textures.Highlight important points such as transition areas and focal points.Structure the plantings by using massing and layering techniques.Consider the function of plants for both the environment and the user.Create and link spaces by designating activity areas and linking with elements.Use a form and/or style theme to help determine shapes and organize spaces.Remember the user by considering what you want and need.Understand your site for plant selection and activity location.Throughout the design process there are ten important things to consider: The last step is a final design that includes all the hardscape and planting details that are necessary for installation. The functional diagram is then used to locate the activity spaces on the site and from this diagram a conceptual plan is developed. The site and user analyses will also help you establish a theme for the form and style of your design. The next step is to make a list of your needs and desires-this helps you determine how your yard and landscape will be used. It's important because the same climate conditions that affect the plants-temperature, humidity, rain, wind, and sunlight-also affect you, the user. This is a critical step for both plant selection and placement and locating family activities and functions. The process begins with a site inventory and analysis of soil, drainage, climate conditions, and existing vegetation. The last two steps then apply those requirements to the creation of the final landscape plan. The first three steps establish the aesthetic, functional, and horticultural requirements for the design. The five steps of the design process include: 1) conducting a site inventory and analysis, 2) determining your needs, 3) creating functional diagrams, 4) developing conceptual design plans, and 5) drawing a final design plan.
The goal is to organize the natural and man-made features in your yard into an aesthetic, functional, and environmentally sustainable landscape. A master plan is developed through the 'design process': a step-by-step method that considers the environmental conditions, your desires, and the elements and principles of design. Developing a master plan will save you time and money and is more likely to result in a successful design. When designing a residential landscape, the most important step is to put a plan on paper.