CPH CPH Landscape Design and Installation 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What mathematical proportion, approximately 1:1.618, is commonly used in landscape design to create visually harmonious compositions?
- The Fibonacci sequence
- The golden ratio (Correct answer)
- The rule of thirds
- The silver ratio
Correct answer: The golden ratio
The golden ratio (approximately 1:1.618, also known as phi) is used in landscape design to create proportions that are naturally pleasing to the eye.
Question 2: Which design principle refers to the equal distribution of visual weight in a landscape composition?
- Rhythm
- Unity
- Balance (Correct answer)
- Emphasis
Correct answer: Balance
Balance in landscape design refers to the distribution of visual weight so the composition feels stable, and can be symmetrical (formal) or asymmetrical (informal).
Question 3: What is a 'berm' in landscape construction?
- A type of erosion-control fabric
- A raised mound of soil used to add interest or redirect drainage (Correct answer)
- A dry-stacked stone retaining wall
- A permeable paving system
Correct answer: A raised mound of soil used to add interest or redirect drainage
A berm is a raised mound of soil used to create visual interest, improve privacy, buffer noise, or redirect surface water flow.
Question 4: Which practice BEST protects existing tree root zones from soil compaction during landscape construction?
- Removing topsoil before grading
- Compacting soil prior to planting
- Placing plywood or protective mats over root zones (Correct answer)
- Operating heavy equipment only on dry days
Correct answer: Placing plywood or protective mats over root zones
Plywood or protective mats distribute equipment weight and reduce soil compaction in the critical root zone of existing trees.
Question 5: In landscaping, 'hardscape' refers to which of the following?
- Drought-tolerant plant selections
- Non-living constructed elements such as patios, walkways, and walls (Correct answer)
- Winter-hardy plant material rated for Zone 4 or below
- Rocky or compacted soil conditions
Correct answer: Non-living constructed elements such as patios, walkways, and walls
Hardscape encompasses the non-living, structural elements of a landscape including patios, paths, retaining walls, and fences.
Question 6: The design principle of 'repetition' is primarily used in landscape composition to:
- Plant only a single species throughout
- Create visual rhythm and a sense of unity (Correct answer)
- Avoid the use of seasonal color
- Maintain strict formal symmetry at all times
Correct answer: Create visual rhythm and a sense of unity
Repeating design elements such as plant form, color, or texture creates visual rhythm and cohesion throughout the landscape.
CPH CPH Landscape Design and Installation 1
What mathematical proportion, approximately 1:1.618, is commonly used in landscape design to create visually harmonious compositions?