Landscape design embraces the principles of fine art to shape a mural
in concert with nature. A good design is a work of art, a sculpture
that reflects an interplay of color, skillful use of texture and expert
knowledge of plant materials. The final touches of the artist’s
work pull the elements together to create beauty in an environmentally
friendly way. The result is a masterpiece on Mother Nature’s canvas,
one that pleases the senses and reflects personal preferences.
Land Use
An experienced landscape designer considers many factors, such as
how the land will be used. Grand outdoor entertaining? Intimate social
gatherings? Family fun, with barbecues, lawn games and children’s
play area? The answers help direct the design lines and choices of
plant materials. For example, trees and shrubs can shape outdoor “walls”
to create a secluded garden for private quiet time. Grassy areas offer
open space for lawn games and may be used to direct attention to the
home or building. A well-designed landscape also complements the “hardscape”
– driveways and motor courts, walkways, pools and pool decks,
for example.
Plant Materials
Beauty within the landscape plan includes the use
of proper plant materials. Native plants, near natives and ones that
have adapted to the growing conditions of a particular area not only
thrive, they require far less maintenance than other plants, trees
and shrubs. The most successful landscapes incorporate the proper
materials in the proper places with the proper growing conditions.
Environmentally Friendly Approaches
The choice of trees and where they grow can reduce cooling costs by
shading areas of the home or building from direct sunlight. Gardens
mulched with natural materials, such as pine straw, reduce the total
turf, add character and personality to the design and enhance the sensory
appeal. Reduced turf means less water for irrigation plus reduced herbicide,
pesticide and fertilizer use. This is a gift to nature and the environment
in the guise of reduced contamination in the runoff that reaches water
supplies and natural waterways. (My Botanica offers a range of environmentally
sensitive products that we have selected for our garden shop. Learn
more ...)
My Botanica’s team of professionals welcomes the opportunity
to answer your questions, provide information about how to create a
distinctive design and help you choose the best products
for your landscape and garden projects. Please call toll free 1-888-722-4308.
