Item

Planting philosophy : New Zealand planting design past and present

Anderson, Jonathan
Date
1985
Type
Dissertation
Fields of Research
ANZSRC::120107 Landscape Architecture , ANZSRC::050205 Environmental Management
Abstract
Planting philosophy is seldom discussed within the New Zealand landscape profession. Most designers have their own ideas on planting, but seem reluctant to influence the approach of others. Perhaps the landscape, the people who live in it and the profession itself would benefit from more debate. This dissertation seeks to address sane of issues through a study of planting history in this country; an approach which, besides turning up many fascinating facts, helps us to understand the origins of contemporary attitudes and approaches to planting design. What is planting philosophy? The Concise Oxford Dictionary defines philosophy as: "a system of theories on the nature of things or (of) rules for the conduct of life." Planting philosophy could therefore be defined as theories on the suitability of different plant species, varieties and cultivars to particular, landscape, environmental and social situations and rules for the arrangement, establishment and maintenance of those plants. Understanding planting philosophy is important. The choice of plants, plant size, number and layout, site preparation, planting and subsequent maintenance, can determine the success or failure of a design. Imagine, for instance, ones intention is to create a restful, contemplative space. The use of plants with loud variegated foliage, bright flowers and berries would defeat this purpose. Likewise, imagine planting in an exposed coastal situation. The budget allows no money for aftercare, so the plants will not be watered or weeded. One's design is certain to fail if it uses tender ornamental species. Planting can fulfil many functions in a design. One classification cites architectural, engineering, climatological, ecological, food and fuel, and aesthetic uses. These can be combined in a range of combinations which to be successful only require skill and sophistication their design. We have barely started to experiment in sane areas. For instance, beyond simple shelterbelts we have little skill in using planting to manipulate microclimate. Plants are unique in our palette of materials in being living, dynamic and changing. This requires additional skill in designing compared to static materials, although in use planting is often also more flexible and forgiving of mistakes. Phased and ecological approaches offer exciting possibilities. They allow designs to grow and mature, to become more complex and subtle and to develop deeper human meaning value. The latter is important as plants, both alone and in masses, have meaning beyond simply their appearance or function. They are symbols associated with the particular place they grow, with other places, with people, with ideas and with lifestyle. Reflect for a moment on the significance of the English oak or the Arum Lilly. Symbolic aspects are usually overlooked in the conscious design process.
Source DOI
Rights
https://researcharchive.lincoln.ac.nz/pages/rights
Creative Commons Rights
Access Rights
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