Tips for Creating an American Plantscape
The American Planning Association has been promoting landscape gardening in America for over a century. The Landscape Administrator is in charge of:
Answer phones; liaise between landscapers and customers; plan and coordinate designer lead; schedule plantings; ensure that office supplies are on hand; assist in the organization of project tasks; provide administrative support such as maintaining office supplies and files. The primary aim of the Landscape Administrator is to ensure that the plantings are in place prior to the commencement of the season. Plantings will also depend upon the amount of rain during the season. They may be sparse in certain areas of the country. The primary focus of the American Planting Association is, as always, the promotion of landscape gardening and landscape maintenance. To this end they perform inspections to make sure that the plants are healthy.
When choosing plants for your landscape, consider where they will be planted. It is not uncommon to plant a border of perennials around a structure such as a sundial, gazebo or pergola to give it more depth and dimension. Border plants should be selected to complement the existing plantings. In a southern region the plants should contrast with the backdrop of perennial evergreens.
Some popular plants are native to specific regions and you should discuss these with your local Landscape Designer. It is important to remember that all plants have their own specific needs when it comes to water, sun, soil, and fertilizers. It is advisable to consult your local garden center for advice on what plants will suit your area best.
There are many landscape plants available to suit any budget, tastes and style. Planting beds can be constructed from a variety of materials such as stone, clay, cedar or straw. Some modern designs include unique geometric patterns. A raised bed will allow vines and climbing shrubs to be grown in a compact manner. Beds can also be designed using a combination of these textures and finishes to achieve an eclectic look.
One important thing to bear in mind when purchasing plants is that once planted they will require some time to adjust to their new environment. If you live in a climate with extremes of temperatures during the day and night, then you will need to choose plants which can cope with this condition. Also pay careful attention to the orientation of the limbs of a tree. Certain types of trees grow more easily than others and can have a greater impact on the overall appearance of your landscape.
The creation of a beautiful landscape garden can be a rewarding experience. However, due to the initial costs associated with having a landscape garden, many people opt to simply abandon their plans and abandon their gardens. Planting small bushes and herbs in containers is an ideal solution for anyone who is struggling financially.
In summary, if you would like to plant an attractive and healthy landscape garden that will complement your existing property, then take into consideration the different requirements which plants need to survive in your local climate. Furthermore, do not be afraid to mix traditional and modern plants together. For example by planting a series of evergreens along the borders of a lawn, you can create a natural looking border that is both appealing and practical. Finally it is worth remembering that many of us appreciate the benefits of landscape gardens even more when we have eaten a meal. Therefore, do not forget to enjoy your new garden and make the most of your new space.
However, even the most hardy gardeners can run into difficulties. One of these is deciding what plants will best suite your particular garden. In order to help you choose, spend some time browsing through plant catalogs and magazines. Look out for plants that are suited to your climate and are easy to maintain. Some examples of plants that work well as barriers against heat are hostas, shrubs such as ramblers, ferns, bladderworts, columbines, elms and impatiens.
On the other hand, if you are looking for plants that will provide a focal point for your landscape, consider planting shrubs, herbs, flowers and trees. Small shrubs such as dwarf Japanese maples and clematis work well as barriers against heat. Meanwhile, evergreen shrubs such as rhododendrons, azaleas and Californian honeysuckle offer stunning shades of color. Herb gardens are an attractive addition to any American garden. Try planting a herb garden that complements one or more of the plants you have chosen for your landscape.
Of course, your choice of plants will depend largely on the climate in which you live. Make sure that your chosen plants are not susceptible to heat or water stress. They should also be able to tolerate shade and poor soil. If your climate is mild and you live in a place with plenty of sunlight, you may consider planting woodland plants in your landscape. On the other hand, if the area you live in is cold, you may want to protect your garden with barriers such as forest oaks.