Landscape Design & Installation Flashcards

What spacing formula is used to determine the number of plants needed to fill a bed at a specified on-center spacing?

Answer: Area ÷ (0.866 × spacing²)

For triangular (staggered) spacing, the formula Area ÷ (0.866 × spacing²) accounts for the offset rows, providing more efficient ground coverage than square spacing.

Which landscape design principle ensures that the size of elements relates logically to the overall space and to each other?

Answer: Proportion

Proportion addresses the size relationships between landscape elements and their surroundings, ensuring features appear appropriately scaled to the space.

During landscape installation, what is the purpose of staking and guying a newly planted tree?

Answer: To provide temporary wind stability until roots establish

Staking provides temporary support to prevent the root ball from moving during wind events, allowing roots to anchor properly; stakes should generally be removed after one growing season.

Which of the following is the MOST effective strategy for minimizing plant establishment irrigation needs in a new landscape?

Answer: Selecting plants adapted to the local climate and existing site conditions

Choosing plants adapted to local climate, soil type, and moisture regime reduces supplemental irrigation needs and improves long-term plant survival.

What is a 'concept plan' in the landscape design process?

Answer: A preliminary diagram showing design intent, functional zones, and spatial organization

A concept plan is an early-stage design diagram using abstract shapes and symbols to communicate ideas about space organization, circulation, and use areas before plant selection.

In the context of low-impact landscape design, what does 'right-of-way' planting primarily consider?

Answer: Choosing plants suitable for utilities, traffic sight lines, and public access in public strips

Right-of-way plantings must avoid interference with overhead utilities, maintain driver sight lines, tolerate compaction and road salt, and comply with municipal regulations.

Which soil amendment practice is recommended BEFORE installing a new landscape bed to improve structure and fertility?

Answer: Incorporating 2–4 inches of compost and tilling to a depth of 8–12 inches

Incorporating 2–4 inches of compost tilled to 8–12 inches improves soil structure, drainage, aeration, and organic matter content to support healthy plant establishment.