When it comes to landscape planning, there are two main things to think about: beautification and function. While it’s important for a landscape to look nice, it’s equally important that it works effectively.
Plants, trees and shrubs can add to the color and greenery, and they can create balance. However, they can also create windbreaks, set up barriers from the sun, help with noise reduction, assist with water issues, aid in privacy and establish buffers.
When planning, you want to first consider what your particular needs are, as well as deciding what kinds of plants and trees are visually appealing to the location. The first step in planning a landscape is to understand the site conditions you are dealing with.
“This includes soil type and drainage, sun/shade patterns, wind direction, and any other microclimate issues that might be present,” said Brian Niemann, statewide builder and developer coordinator, of Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program, University of Florida.
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By Ann M. O’Phelan
