

Determine whether you have full sun (six or more hours of direct sun), partial sun (sometimes called partial shade: two to six hours of direct sunlight), or full shade (less than two hours of direct sunlight). Once you’ve marked the location for your new native plant garden, spend one day to track the sun in this space. “ Principles of Landscape Design” from Michigan State Universityīefore you head to the check-out line with a basket full of plants you’d like to install, do a little pre-planning work.“ Principles of Landscape Design,” a slideshow presentation from Clemson University.Circular 536, “ Basic Principles of Landscape Design” from the University of Florida.To find out more about the principles of creating a native garden, check out: Decide on a theme and stick to it, and you’ll likely achieve unity in your garden design. They are often associated with the look of the rural English countryside. Example: Does a cottage garden look like a cottage garden? Cottage gardens look informal and naturalistic, using local materials, such as trees and stone, to create garden beds and fence lines.Unity is the sum of the successful use of all other elements. It also considers how well the garden fits with the space or climate. Practically, this is closely related to the theme, such as cottage garden, Asian garden, or formal garden. Unity is the “main idea” of your landscape. Example: The flow in height from groundcover, to small perennial, to shrub, to tree.Transition refers to a “gradual change” in shape, size, or color. This usually leads to a chaotic appearance. Example: Focus on a single idea or garden theme and stick to it (for example, a Japanese, cottage, desert, or kitchen garden).If a landscape lacks organization or unity, it lacks simplicity.

It does not imply a lack of complexity or interest. Simplicity is the idea that a designer should keep only the elements that contribute to the design’s unity and coherence.

Similarly, a pathway lined with trees (repetition) directs the visitor toward, perhaps, a fountain at the end of the walk.
#NATIVE LANDSCAPE DESIGN HOW TO#

Visit a local arboretum, wildlife sanctuary, or nature trail.Check out your state’s native plant society.Learn more about native plants in your city.Design fundamentals of a native plant garden.
