LARE LARE Plants and Planting Design 3

Question 1

Which layer of a woodland planting design is referred to as the 'understory'?

Accepted Answer

Small trees and large shrubs growing beneath the forest canopy

Answer

Ground covers and herbaceous perennials

Answer

The canopy layer formed by dominant trees

Answer

Root zone plantings and bulbs

Question 2

What is a 'planting strip' (also called a 'parkway') in urban streetscape design?

Accepted Answer

The zone of landscaping between the sidewalk and the curb

Answer

A median dividing opposing traffic lanes

Answer

A wide pedestrian promenade lined with trees

Answer

An at-grade planting bed in a parking lot

Question 3

When specifying plants for a LEED-certified project, which category of plant material is typically prioritized to earn regional materials credits?

Accepted Answer

Native and regionally adapted plants sourced within 500 miles

Answer

Imported exotic species with high ornamental value

Answer

Fast-growing non-native trees to maximize carbon sequestration

Answer

Cultivars bred for disease resistance regardless of origin

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of a 'tree protection zone' (TPZ) established on construction documents?

Accepted Answer

To define the area around existing trees where disturbance is prohibited to protect roots

Answer

To designate where new trees will be planted after construction

Answer

To mark the limit of the irrigation system for new tree installations

Answer

To specify the clearance zone under a tree's canopy for pedestrian safety

Question 5

Which soil condition is MOST detrimental to newly installed landscape plants during the establishment period?

Accepted Answer

Compacted subsoil with poor drainage causing anaerobic conditions

Answer

Slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.5

Answer

Moderate clay content providing nutrient retention

Answer

Low organic matter requiring annual fertilization

Question 6

In planting design specifications, what does 'bare root' refer to as a method of plant installation?

Accepted Answer

Trees or shrubs sold and planted with no soil around their roots, typically dormant

Answer

Plants installed without a mulch layer to expose soil

Answer

Planting into exposed aggregate or gravel surfaces

Answer

Root pruning performed at the time of planting