Writing as both a landscape architect and civil engineer, I concur with the guidance to hire a landscape architect.
I encourage your efforts to expand your practice but believing that you can gain the knowledge of a landscape architect (or horticulturist) from an introductory text on landscape architecture is analogous to believing that a landscape architect could practice engineering from reading an introductory text on engineering.
Work with a landscape architect to learn the information from them. Most will be happy to share and you will probably find that your projects benefit in other ways from their participation. They will also be able to direct you to other resources and continuing education courses that they are required to take and in which you may find the guidance you seek.
The specific information that you seek is found in the areas of planting design and horticulture. Plants come in all shapes, sizes, conditions, etc. It takes time, experience, and research to know what works best where, how large it will get, what its pros and cons may be, and so forth. Join your local botanical gardens or arboretum and spend some time getting familiar with those sites. The folks that work there are a wealth of information!
In any case, specify native plants. Pay attention to sun/shade requirements, mature plant size, plant spacing, water requirements, soil pH, etc. Natives will be better adapted to the climate of your region, better support local fauna, and require less maintenance. You may be able to find continuing education courses on the desired topics through your local agricultural university (e.g. Texas A&M, NC State, etc.) and ag-extension programs.
Good luck!
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Tony Hauser, PLA, PE
Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions, Inc.
Asheville NC
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-20-2019 13:52
From: Trae Livick
Subject: Landscape Design for Civil Engineers
I am curious to know if anyone has come across workshops or short courses for landscape designing.
Local zoning ordinances typically require a landscape plan for buffer yards between parking lots and public ways or between different zoning districts, etc. There is typically a list of allowed species and plant sizes. I can lay such a plan out, but not very confidently.
Furthermore, along with landscape plan per ordinance, we typically include a planting plan for landscaping around the buildings or pedestrian paths within the site.
Just looking for suggestions on how to boost my confidence when laying out a landscape plan.
Thanks!
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Trae Livick PE,MASCE
Roanoke VA
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