Chapter 10 Ornamental Plants in the Landscape 255 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Turfgrasses Properly installed and maintained turf makes an immediate impact on the landscape unlike any other part of the design. Turfgrass is often the base on which the site is landscaped and it often occupies a large percentage of the land- scape site, Figure 10-18. There are many varieties of turfgrass and the designer must determine which variety will suit the landscape and meet the customer’s expectations. Important characteristics to consider include wear tolerance, disease resistance, density, color, shade tolerance, drought tolerance, and maintenance requirements. The designer must also know which types grow best in warmer climates and which will thrive in cooler climates. There are several methods of installation with varying costs, including seeding, sodding, and plugging. (These methods are explained in the follow- ing turfgrass chapters.) The client and designer must determine which method suits the project’s budget. Fertilization and pest control along with maintenance procedures, such as mowing and aerating, make turfgrass very labor intensive. Ground Covers A ground cover is a low growing (usually less than 18″), spreading plant that can quickly cover a large area, Figure 10-19. Most ground covers are perennial plants that require less maintenance than most other ornamentals. These low-growing plants may be selected for their color, texture, or fl ow- ers. Ground covers are typically woody plants but may also be herbaceous. Most woody ground covers are evergreens. Ground covers are used for steep SingjaiStock/Shutterstock.com Figure 10-18. A winding path of thick, healthy turfgrass creates an inviting landscape. The lawn is often the first part of the landscape that is noticed. EQRoy/Shutterstock.com Figure 10-19. A mix of ground covers is visually appealing and practical. Choose plant species that require the same environmental needs as the surrounding plants. A—Star sedum (Sedum lineare ‘Golden Teardrop’). B—Creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis ‘Golden Carpet’). C—Carpet bugleweed (Ajuga reptans). ESB Essentials/Shutterstock.com photowind/Shutterstock.com A B C