Plants

It's fairly self-evident: plants are the single most important element of landscape design. They are the real, living part of the landscape. They produce the oxygen you breathe. You can arrange them by shape, color, height, and texture. They can be accented as focal points, spread as ground cover, or even obscure the less attractive portions of the yard. Plants are special and sensitive, so choose carefully.

"Specimen plant" is term for a plant that is so fantastic that it serves as a representative of its species. These plants are highly prized and often serve as focal points in a landscape. Plants that are arranged to support and accentuate the specimen plant are referred to as "foundation plants." These plants contribute to the overall design of the landscape and are often used for ground cover or texture.

If you want to give your landscape, or a certain area of it, a sectioned off feel, "border plants" are the way to do it. Typically, border plants are used for their colors to signal changes between sections of landscape.

When choosing plants, you should be sure that they are hardy for your zone. This will inform your landscaping plant purchases. Your best bet is to closely observe the USDA Hardiness Zone Map. The map shows average highs and lows for each of the six major regions in the United States. This will help you find the plants least likely to die due to the climatic conditions of your zone.

When looking at a potential plant for your landscape, consider the amount of light and water it requires. Also, don't forget to take into account the amount your plant is expected to grow. You don't want to crowd your plants or keep them separate and lonely, but to give them just the right amount of space.

Good landscape design will result from great care for the needs of your plant life. Plants are living, breathing beings, and they will only be willing to beautify your landscape if you treat them with respect!