RECOMMENDED MATRIX OF PLANTING STRATEGIES

The matrix of planting strategies was developed to guide designers in the selection of plant material type and size based on the needs of specific areas of a project.

Where a variety of options are available, material should be selected based on the appropriate area and expected level of care.

MATRIX OF PLANTING STRATEGIES

PLANTING TYPE

SIZE/UNIT

BEST USE

PROS

CONS

LEVELS OF CARE ZONE
TREES Container
(#15, – #30 Container)		 Everywhere Available all seasons Small sizes High/ med
B & b
(Minimum tree caliper: 1.5”)		 Feature tree Large Only seasonally available High
Container (#3 Container, RPM) Reforestation Revetment Low cost Maintenance challenge
High loss rate		 Low
SHRUBS Container
(#3 – #7 Container)		 Everywhere
PERENNIALS Large container
(#Sp5, – #1 container)		 Features Immediate mass Higher cost High
Small container
(#Sp3 – #sp4 container/tray)		 Mass planting Low cost More effort for establishment High/ med
Plugs
(#Sp2, – #sp3 container/tray)		 Rain garden
Large massing		 Low cost Requires tight spacing to prevent weed pressure Med/low
Bulbs Interplanting Low maintenance Limited life-span All
PRAIRIE SEED Seed Outside high priority areas Very low cost
Immediate mass		 Weed control
Establishment		 Low
TURF Sod High priority areas Immediate cover Higher cost. Watering is critical High
Seed Outside high priority areas Low material cost Requires establishment effort. Med/low