Native Landscape Design Workshop

*Each week is “themed”, so there is a description for each week of the workshop. See below.
Week 1 (February 10th) – Why Plant Natives?
Did you know that the majority of our beneficial native insects have co-evolved for thousands and millions of years to efficiently metabolize our native plants? Learn the many ecological benefits of native plants and why you should incorporate them into your yard. Increase the beauty and function of your yard. Every little habitat helps!
Week 2 (February 17th) – Measuring and Drawing Your Existing Yard
During this session we will discuss how to properly measure the dimensions of your yard and take a site inventory of existing sidewalks, elevation and topography, turf grass space, trees, light conditions, et cetera. Using this information we will create a base map upon which you will draw your landscape design and begin to identify the functional areas of your yard. This session will involve hands-on outdoor and indoor classroom time.
Week 3 (February 24th) – From Functional Concepts to Composition
After gaining an understanding for the physical inventory of your yard, the designing phase can begin. We will brainstorm how we convert functional areas (ie: patio areas, perennial and/or vegetable gardens, et cetera) from conceptual to solidified form composition. There will be individual work time during this session.
Week 4 (March 3rd) – Design Principles
We will continue transforming our conceptual areas into paper and pencil composition. We will also describe the basic design principles, including: proportion and function of space; rhythm, balance and views; plant characteristics of color, texture, wildlife attraction, et cetera.
Week 5 (March 10th) – Preliminary Blueprint Creation Phase 1
Application of the principles to create a quality design will be explained. You will then draw your own preliminary landscape design blueprint, applying the discussed concepts. Majority of this session time will be for individual work time and questions.
Week 6 (March 17th) – Preliminary Blueprint Creation Phase 2
During this session you will have the opportunity to continue working towards the completion of your preliminary landscape blueprint. We will have open discussion for questions. The UEC Land Stewards will be present for personal, hands-on support with any and all of your design questions.
Week 7 (March 24th) – Plant Selection for your Master Design Plan
Now that you’ve learned how to design and plan your landscape, we will discuss the importance of properly preparing your landscape for planting. We will also explore the factors for selecting plants and supplies needed to finish your landscape. You will learn how to read and use plant selection guides to help you choose which plants will do well in your site conditions. This session will involve discussion and individual work time.
For questions about this program, please reach out to our Washington Park Land Steward, Michaela Rosenthal, at [email protected].

Registration is required for this event.