CLARB Planting Design and Ecology

Question 1

Which USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map resource is most commonly referenced when selecting plants for a CLARB exam project in the continental US?

Accepted Answer

USDA ARS Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Answer

Sunset Western Garden Zone Map

Answer

American Horticultural Society Heat Zone Map

Answer

Koppen Climate Classification Map

Question 2

A landscape architect specifies a 'plant community' approach for a restoration site. What does this primarily mean?

Accepted Answer

Plants are grouped based on their native ecological associations and environmental tolerances

Answer

Plants are chosen solely for aesthetic color combinations

Answer

Plants are selected only from the same genus

Answer

Plants are arranged in formal geometric patterns

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of specifying a soil amendment such as compost at a rate of 3 inches tilled to 12 inches depth in a planting bed?

Accepted Answer

To improve soil structure, drainage, and nutrient content for plant establishment

Answer

To increase soil compaction for stability

Answer

To raise the pH of alkaline soils

Answer

To eliminate all existing soil organisms

Question 4

Which term describes the gradual replacement of one plant community by another over time?

Accepted Answer

Ecological succession

Answer

Phenological shift

Answer

Allelopathy

Answer

Xeriscaping

Question 5

On a CLARB planting plan, what does the abbreviation 'B&B' typically indicate about a plant specimen?

Accepted Answer

Balled and burlapped — the root ball is wrapped in burlap for transplanting

Answer

Bare-root and balled — planted without soil around roots

Answer

Branch and bark — referring to bark texture specifications

Answer

Biodegradable and bundled — container type

Question 6

When designing a bioswale planting palette, which plant characteristic is most critical?

Accepted Answer

Tolerance for both wet and dry conditions (facultative wetland or upland species)

Answer

High drought tolerance only

Answer

Strictly aquatic species only

Answer

Fast-growing invasive species for quick coverage