Planting Design
No More Boring Landscapes
Which plants do I choose? Where do I place them? Planting design didn’t come naturally to me at first, but here’s the thing—it’s not about being a natural. It’s about systems. By breaking down the process into simple, manageable steps, I’ve been able to get it right every single time. Consistency beats talent when you trust the process.
My 11 Steps of Planting Design
5
Site Inventory & Analysis
Are we keeping any plants? Where is the shade? Are there any spots where water doesn’t drain well? Understanding what's already there helps us come up with the best ideas.
6
Functional Diagram
Where will my plants go?
Start with the bigger picture. Plants are multifunctional—they welcome, guide, and protect. They aren’t an afterthought but part of the plan from the start. Plants need to work with the landscape.
7
Preliminary Design
Time to build the framework. I will label the Trees, perennials, and ground cover. Which Plants will be deciduous vs. evergreen. I'm still thinking in broad strokes at this stage.
8
3D
Your plants take shape in 3D. This is the moment to see how they interact and complement each other.
