There are seven principles to consider when selecting plants, which ensure client’s design requirements and plant growing requirements are met.
1. Light – Plants need sunlight to produce food, through photosynthesis. Common icons are used to indicate light requirements for individual plants [Fig.1].
2. Soil & moisture – There are two layers to garden soil; Topsoil and Subsoil. Plants grow in Topsoil by accessing air, water and nutrients. There are 3 main types of soil, see diagram below [Fig.2];
The soil PH level, measurement of acidity or alkalinity, also supports different plants. Most plants thrive in soil between 6.0 and 7.0.
3. Hardiness – Hardiness zones are geographically defined areas with similar average temperatures, see below for the UK zones and hardiness rating [Fig.3]. This specifies the minimum temperature a plant can withstand. Local microclimates, humidity and frost must also be considered.
4. Height & Spread – Considering a plant’s final height and spread ensures the planting is kept in proportion, plant health is maintained, and views are not obstructed. A boarder should have shorter plants at the front and taller at the back.
5. Type of Plant
6. Interest – Interest can be achieved using, Foilage [Fig. 4], Flowers [Fig. 5], Fragrance [Fig. 6], Â and Fruits and Seeds [Fig. 7].
7. Care – It is important to know the minimal care required for selected plants and the maintenance ability and desire of the client. Maintenance includes, watering, mulching, pruning, & dead heading. All of which help prolong the healthy life of your plants.
Consideration for all 7 principles will ensure a thriving beautiful garden design is achieved.