Landscape Fundamentals Flashcards

In landscape design, what does the principle of 'unity' primarily refer to?

Answer: A sense of cohesion where all elements work together as a whole

Unity is the sense that all parts of the design relate and feel like a cohesive whole.

Which design element creates depth and draws the eye through a landscape?

Answer: Perspective and layering of plant heights

Layering plants from low to tall creates depth and guides the viewer's eye.

What is the role of a 'focal point' in a landscape design?

Answer: To capture attention and anchor the composition

A focal point is a dominant feature that draws and holds the viewer's attention.

Repetition of color, shape, or texture in a landscape primarily achieves what?

Answer: Rhythm and visual harmony

Repeating elements creates rhythm and ties the design together visually.

Which of the following best describes 'scale' in landscape design?

Answer: The size relationship between elements and their surroundings

Scale refers to the relative size of features compared to each other and the space.

Why is a 'transition' important when designing plant beds?

Answer: It gradually changes size, color, or texture to avoid abrupt visual jumps

Gradual transitions in height, texture, or color make a design feel natural and flowing.

What does 'balance' mean in a landscape composition?

Answer: The visual equilibrium of elements on either side of a central axis

Balance is the visual equilibrium achieved symmetrically or asymmetrically across a design.

Which type of balance uses mirror-image arrangements on both sides of an axis?

Answer: Symmetrical (formal) balance

Symmetrical balance places identical or near-identical elements on both sides of a central line.

A homeowner wants a low-maintenance landscape in a dry climate. Which approach fits best?

Answer: Xeriscaping with drought-tolerant plants

Xeriscaping uses drought-tolerant plants and efficient watering to minimize maintenance in dry climates.

What is the primary purpose of a 'mass planting'?

Answer: To create bold visual impact and simplify maintenance with groups of one plant

Mass plantings group many of the same plant for strong visual impact and easier care.

When designing for a small yard, which technique helps it feel larger?

Answer: Using diagonal lines and borrowed views

Diagonal sightlines and borrowing distant views visually expand a small space.

What does 'texture' refer to in plant selection?

Answer: The visual and tactile coarseness or fineness of foliage and surfaces

Texture is the perceived coarseness or fineness of leaves, bark, and surfaces.

Which line type in a landscape tends to create a calm, restful feeling?

Answer: Horizontal lines

Horizontal lines suggest stability and rest, creating a calming effect.

Why are 'curved bed lines' often used in informal landscape designs?

Answer: They create a natural, relaxed, flowing feel

Gentle curves mimic nature and give informal designs a relaxed, flowing character.

What is the 'design process' typically initiated with in landscape planning?

Answer: A site analysis and inventory of existing conditions

Good design begins with analyzing the site's existing conditions, soil, sun, and drainage.

Which factor is MOST important to assess before selecting plants for a bed?

Answer: Sunlight exposure and soil conditions

Matching plants to available light and soil ensures they thrive long-term.

What is a 'hardscape' element in landscape design?

Answer: Non-living features like patios, walls, and walkways

Hardscape refers to the built, non-living structures such as paths, walls, and patios.

A USDA Plant Hardiness Zone helps a designer determine what?

Answer: Which plants can survive the local winter temperatures

Hardiness zones indicate the coldest temperatures plants can typically survive in a region.

Why is creating a 'bubble diagram' useful early in the design process?

Answer: It roughly organizes functional areas before detailing the plan

Bubble diagrams loosely map out use areas and circulation before refining the design.

Which is an example of a 'functional' design consideration?

Answer: Providing screening for privacy from neighbors

Functional considerations address practical needs like privacy, shade, or traffic flow.