Landscaping Course

Lesson 1 • Climate, Hardiness, and Microclimates

Explains how regional climate and local microclimates affect plant survival and growth. Students learn to match plants to site-specific conditions.

Lesson 2 • Landscape Ecology and Sustainability

Introduces ecological relationships between plants, animals, and soil organisms. Frames sustainability as a core professional responsibility from the outset.

Lesson 3 • Introduction to Landscape Design Principles

Covers the core aesthetic and functional principles guiding landscape design. Establishes the visual vocabulary students apply throughout the course.

Lesson 4 • Soil Science Fundamentals

Examines soil composition, texture, and structure as the foundation for plant health. Connects soil knowledge to plant selection and site preparation decisions.

Lesson 1 • Reading and Interpreting Site Plans

Teaches how to read topographic maps, property surveys, and existing-conditions plans. Connects plan-reading skills to accurate field measurement and layout.

Lesson 2 • Drainage and Grading Evaluation

Examines how water moves across and through a site. Students identify drainage problems and propose grading solutions to prevent plant loss and erosion.

Lesson 3 • Existing Vegetation Inventory

Guides students through documenting and evaluating plants already on a site. Inventory data informs decisions about preservation, removal, and new planting.

Lesson 4 • Soil Testing and Analysis

Covers field and laboratory methods for assessing soil health and fertility. Results directly inform amendment strategies taught in later chapters.

Lesson 1 • Planting Plan Creation

Guides students through selecting and placing plants on a scaled plan. Planting plans integrate aesthetic, ecological, and maintenance considerations.

Lesson 2 • Digital Design Software Basics

Covers industry-standard CAD and design software for landscape professionals. Students produce digital base plans and layer-based drawings efficiently.

Lesson 3 • Concept and Bubble Diagram Development

Teaches ideation techniques for translating site analysis into spatial concepts. Concept diagrams serve as the bridge between analysis and detailed design.

Lesson 4 • Construction and Detail Drawings

Covers how to produce hardscape layout plans and construction details. These drawings guide contractors in building patios, walls, and other site features accurately.

Lesson 1 • Perennials, Annuals, and Ground Covers

Covers the selection and use of herbaceous plants and low-growing covers for beds and borders. Students design plant combinations that provide year-round colour and texture.

Lesson 2 • Trees and Shrubs: Selection and Use

Focuses on woody plant characteristics, functions, and placement in the landscape. Students learn to use trees and shrubs for structure, screening, and seasonal interest.

Lesson 3 • Establishment Care After Planting

Addresses the critical first growing season after installation. Students develop watering schedules and monitoring routines that ensure successful plant establishment.

Lesson 4 • Planting Methods and Best Practices

Teaches correct planting procedures for trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Proper technique at installation directly determines long-term plant health and survival.

Lesson 1 • Patio and Walkway Construction

Teaches layout, cutting, and installation of paved surfaces for patios and paths. Students practise pattern selection, joint filling, and edge restraint installation.

Lesson 2 • Base Preparation and Grading

Covers excavation, compaction, and base layer construction for hardscape surfaces. A properly prepared base prevents settling, cracking, and drainage failures.

Lesson 3 • Hardscape Materials and Their Properties

Surveys common hardscape materials including concrete, stone, brick, and wood. Material properties guide selection for durability, aesthetics, and site compatibility.

Lesson 4 • Retaining Walls and Garden Edging

Addresses the design and construction of low retaining walls and bed edging systems. Students learn load, drainage, and material considerations for safe, lasting structures.

Lesson 1 • Water Requirements and Plant Zones

Establishes how to calculate plant water needs and group plants into hydrozones. Hydrozone design is the foundation of efficient irrigation system layout.

Lesson 2 • Smart Irrigation and Water Conservation

Introduces weather-based controllers, soil moisture sensors, and water-efficient technologies. Students evaluate and specify smart systems that reduce water use significantly.

Lesson 3 • Installation and Trenching Techniques

Covers the physical installation of pipes, heads, and controllers in the field. Correct installation prevents leaks, pressure loss, and system failures.

Lesson 4 • Irrigation System Components

Identifies and explains the function of every component in a residential and commercial irrigation system. Component knowledge enables accurate specification and troubleshooting.

Lesson 1 • Pruning Principles and Techniques

Covers the biology of pruning response and correct cutting methods for trees, shrubs, and perennials. Proper pruning promotes plant health, structure, and aesthetic form.

Lesson 2 • Integrated Pest Management

Introduces a systematic, low-chemical approach to identifying and controlling pests and diseases. Students apply monitoring, threshold, and intervention strategies in sequence.

Lesson 3 • Seasonal Maintenance Scheduling

Guides students in building year-round maintenance calendars for residential and commercial sites. Scheduling ensures tasks are performed at the right time for maximum effectiveness.

Lesson 4 • Lawn Care and Turf Management

Covers mowing, aeration, overseeding, and turf renovation practices for healthy lawns. Students develop turf programmes that balance appearance, durability, and resource use.

Lesson 1 • Client Communication and Contracts

Addresses professional communication practices and the essential elements of landscape contracts. Clear contracts and communication prevent disputes and build long-term client relationships.

Lesson 2 • Safety, Regulations, and Compliance

Covers workplace safety standards, equipment operation rules, and regulatory compliance for landscaping operations. Safety compliance protects workers, clients, and business licences.

Lesson 3 • Project Scheduling and Crew Management

Covers tools and methods for scheduling tasks, allocating crews, and tracking progress. Effective scheduling reduces delays, cost overruns, and client dissatisfaction.

Lesson 4 • Quality Control and Project Closeout

Teaches inspection methods and closeout procedures that ensure work meets design specifications. Thorough closeout protects warranties and sets the stage for maintenance contracts.