Umiya Farm & Nursery

:: Landscaping - Design ::

Landscaping Septic Systems

Landscaping near and around septic systems is of concern to many homeowners. Whether drain fields or mounds, septic systems must have a minimum of three feet of unsaturated soil between the drain field or point of infiltration and limiting soil condition such as hardpan, bedrock or saturated soil in order

to properly treat sewage. A mound system is required if three feet of separation cannot be achieved with an in ground trench system. Mound systems are designed to maximize the absorption capacity of existing soil . Mound location, size, shape, construction procedures and maintenance of the mound all interact in determining how well the system will function. Placement of plants on and near the mound must be done with care to ensure a properly functioning septic system. Plants enhance the system by removing moisture and nutrients from the soil and providing cover to prevent erosion.

Fitting Trees and Shrubs into the Landscape

It is important to have an idea of the approximate size at maturity of the trees and shrubs commonly used in landscape plantings. Mature size is greatly influenced by the length of the growing season, temperature, light, water, soil type, fertility, and many other factors. This makes it impossible to predict the exact mature size of a plant. Plants in shade will often grow taller with a thinner crown than ones growing in an open area. A plant not competing for light may eventually attain the same height, but is likely to be much broader.

Constructing Flagstone Steps in the Landscape

Steps serve many functions in a landscape. One function is to create safe passage and easier movement up and down grades. Steps can also highlight or create garden levels by making outdoor "rooms." Informal steps can be made by using stepping stones placed directly into the ground in a random fashion. More formal steps are constructed with connected straight edges like those found inside a building. Flagstone steps are an example of formal steps.

Lawn and Landscape Design

Presents an introduction to home landscape design. Chapters on lawns, trees, the landscape plan, the front area, and the service and private areas give tips on developing an attractive functional design for residential landscape. Useful backgrounds are information for leaders.