In this course, you will determine how a site may need to be modified before planting. By examining the different properties, you can see how the existing soil will need to be amended so that the plants chosen by the designer will thrive.

There are a number of ways to improve the characteristics of a soil, each with its own benefits and limitations. You will explore these considerations and discuss when to choose each type of modification through practical example exercises. You will compare the properties of the different types of amendments and specialized soils, including CU-Structural Soil™?, which was developed by Cornell University's Urban Horticulture Institute.

Finally, you will address the installation plan. You will specify how much soil will need to be modified, which involves reading, analyzing, and creating both plan and cross-sectional views of the whole site and of the specific locations where plants will be installed. You will also use these views to determine measurements that will enable you to calculate the volumes of necessary soil amendments to make cost prediction more accurate and efficient. Overall, the techniques in this course will increase your understanding of the project design as a whole, allowing you to focus on creativity, innovation, and what you do best.

You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:

• Identifying Plants
• Assessing Site and Soil Properties