Shrub Selection and Composition for Landscape Design

Great landscape design relies on more than just trees and lawns; the thoughtful placement of shrubs and understory plants defines the structure and feel of an outdoor space. This course guides you through the principles of selecting and arranging shrubs to create balanced, ecologically sound site compositions. You will transition from simply picking attractive plants to strategically designing complex understory communities that thrive together and elevate the overall aesthetic of any landscape project. What you'll learn: - Understand the fundamental ecological roles of shrubs and understory plant communities. - Select appropriate shrub species based on soil, light, climate resilience, and biodiversity benefits. - Apply professional composition principles to layer heights, textures, and colors effectively. - Design sustainable planting schemes that conserve water and support local ecosystems. - Plan for long-term growth, spacing, and seasonal transitions in your landscape layouts. Starting with foundational botanical and design concepts, you will progress through structured written explanations and exercises that teach you how to analyze site conditions and draft professional-grade planting lists. This course is designed for aspiring landscape designers, architects, and gardening enthusiasts looking to build foundational design skills. No prior design or botanical experience is required. Start reading today to master the art of landscape composition with shrubs.