Landscaping Design – Plants, Shrubs, and Trees

When selecting plants, shrubs, and trees, landscape designers focus on the following visual factors to balance the space and make it visually appealing:

Size

Size, along with height, helps define a space. You don’t want your large landscape elements (like towering trees) to overwhelm other structures (like a house) or to obstruct natural views. Try to create patterns and layers with various sizes of plants.
Smaller plants are given additional weight by arranging them in masses or clusters.

Height

Height is the most important factor in defining a space. It can have a huge visual impact when used correctly. Heights should be varied from front to back so that smaller plants are not hidden behind larger ones. Heights should also vary across the vertical
horizon, undulating from taller to shorter and then back again.

Color

Color is the most variable component in landscape design – it can change from season to season and even from morning to evening. However, it is also the component that carries the most visual weight. Brushing up on your color theory comes in handy when
choosing a layout for your design. It’s helpful to know how analogous, complementary, and contrasting colors work together to make a beautiful palette. Keep foliage, bark, flower, stem, and fruit in mind when considering colors.

Smell/Fragrance

Fragrance is the most overlooked factor in landscape design, but it’s a wonderful way to engage visitors and encourage them to spend a little more time. Keep in mind that flowers are not the only plant part that have a fragrance. Many shrubs and even trees add their own scents to a yard. If you would like to discuss how to use these landscaping elements in your yard with an expert designer, don’t hesitate to contact us today.