CLARB CLARB Planting Design and Horticulture Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map in landscape architectural practice?

Accepted Answer

To determine which plants will survive winter temperatures in a given region

Answer

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map divides North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures to guide plant selection.

Question 2

Which plant growth habit describes a plant that completes its entire life cycle in one growing season?

Accepted Answer

Annual

Answer

Annuals germinate, flower, set seed, and die within a single growing season, requiring replanting each year.

Question 3

In planting design, what does the term 'caliper' refer to when specifying nursery trees?

Accepted Answer

The diameter of the trunk measured at a standard height

Answer

Caliper is the standard nursery measurement of trunk diameter, typically taken at 6 inches above ground for trees up to 4-inch caliper.

Question 4

Which soil amendment is most effective at improving drainage in heavy clay soils for landscape planting?

Accepted Answer

Coarse sand or perlite in large quantities

Answer

Coarse sand or perlite added in sufficient quantity to clay soils increases pore space and improves drainage by physically opening up the dense soil structure.

Question 5

What is the recommended minimum planting distance from building foundations for large shade trees to prevent root damage?

Accepted Answer

20 feet or more

Answer

Large shade trees should typically be planted at least 20 feet from building foundations to prevent structural damage from root growth and trunk expansion.

CLARB - Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards Practice Test

CLARB - Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards Practice Test

CLARB CLARB Planting Design and Horticulture Questions and Answers