Most have some post-high school training and many have passed certification programs such as the Landscape Professional Certification, sponsored by the Georgia Green Industry Association (GGIA) and the Georgia Urban Ag Council. The fees for the services of a registered landscape architect are typically higher than for most other design professionals.Ī landscape contractor in Georgia may or may not have a college degree. In addition, a registered landscape architect is trained to handle engineering problems and may even have considerable architectural knowledge, which could come in handy when designing decks or patios. Depending on experience and personal interest, this person may or may not have extensive knowledge of plants or residential design. This individual has received basic training in engineering, construction, plant materials and basic design.
The terms can be confusing.Ī landscape architect in Georgia has received a college degree from an accredited university, worked for a certain period of time under another registered landscape architect, and passed a registration exam. Every state has different licensing laws that regulate what a garden designer can be called (title laws) and under what situations they can design landscapes (practice laws). It is important to know the type of garden designer and the type of service to expect. Their level of training and experience varies. Many different types of garden designers practice in Georgia.
A good landscape designer knows both plants and design standards and how to incorporate individual preferences into an overall design. Though much of this information is available in publications, it may vary with the situation. Just knowing all the different varieties of plants and their maximum growth potential is challenging. Established guidelines for sidewalk widths, driveways, seating walls and decks can be confusing to the novice. The most important reason to hire a garden designer is to ensure certain industry standards and practical guidelines are followed in developing the plan. Garden designers use plants and other elements to design and construct exterior spaces. Professional people who turn these dreams into reality can be garden designers, horticulturists or landscape architects. Others prefer to have everything done by professionals.
Some people find it rewarding to design and install a landscape project themselves. This publication provides guidelines and suggestions for finding a garden designer. When the job seems too big, it may be time to call in a professional.
Designing irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, stone walls and patios requires skills that go beyond those of the average homeowner. A landscape installation can be very simple or extremely complicated. Having a beautiful, creative and functional landscape requires some understanding of design principles, plant materials and outdoor structural elements. The landscape is a very important aspect of a home. This publication is part of the Landscape Design series.ĭavid Berle, Extension Horticulture Specialist