The Master Gardener Articles

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Landscape Design

An interesting web site Master Gardeners find of value is “Plantfacts.osu.edu.”  Curse down to frequently ask questions (FAQ’s). Over 30 topic areas are reviewed.  For example if you click on “Landscaping” you will find a question such as “What should a good landscape design include”, then click on the answer and you will find a short synopsis on landscape design. 

Some key points are:

1. Think of your landscape as an outdoor room with specific functions such as play area, vegetable garden, perennial garden, storage area, open space for viewing, etc.

2. Purpose of the landscape and the function should serve the familiar daily needs.

3. Extend the indoor space outdoors to fulfill specific functions.  For example, the public entrance area can be extended to the indoor foyer outside.  Patio and decks can extend indoor food preparation and dining outside.

4. Be aware that your plan could change over time as your family grows.  Additional privacy, more space for recreation, safety and security, more parking, storage, gardens and space for composting, a potting shed, etc.  All these factors may increase or decrease depending on your family needs.  The rooms you design for your landscape should be flexible so these changes can be made more easily.

For more information on Landscaping, go to Ohioline.osu.edu and search for HYG-1134-94 “Functional Uses of Plants in the Landscape” or contact George McVey, Program Assistant, Horticulture, Master Gardener Coordinator at gmcvey@ag.osu.edu or the Union County Extension Office at 937.644.8117 or toll free at (800) 589.8584.