Landscape Architect Articles

Texas Style Landscaping07-30-13 | News

Texas Style Landscaping

This garden, designed and installed by Johnette Taylor, owner of Roundtree Landscaping, Inc., makes use of (from left to right) dwarf fountain grass; artemisia, drift roses and savannah holly trees.

Johnette Taylor, a licensed landscape architect and certified irrigation auditor in the state of Texas, is the owner of Roundtree Landscaping, Inc. She is an active member of the American Society of Landscape Architects and of the Texas Nursery and Landscape Association (TNLA), where she served as past chairman of the Dallas Region. Currently she is the State Landscape Board Representative, and is active on TNLA's Parks and Patio Committee.

Taylor took time out of her busy schedule to talk to LCDBM about the style of landscaping in Texas.

How has the drought played a role in landscaping?
While water has been an issue in Texas for a number of years, the drought has brought the importance of water conservation to the front of property owner's minds.

Trees have been affected across the state, and seeing permanent damage has helped consumers realize that changes need to be made.

What differences have you noticed?
Clients are looking for ways to maintain a beautiful landscape, but are doing so with a water conscious attitude.

Would you say Texas has its own style of landscaping?
Definitely, but it depends on what part of the state you are in. Here in North Texas, a "Texas Style" landscape includes lots of blooming shrubs and perennials.

What kind of plants would you find in a typical garden?
In a typical garden you will find blooming shrubs and perennials, such as yuccas, succulents, sages and salvias, which thrive here. While these aren't the same plants that thrive in a wetter landscape (for example, Houston), their palette of blooming shrubs and perennials is just as beautiful.

Do you see any new trends on the horizon?
People seem to be planting more perennials than annuals, although everyone still wants to have some seasonal annual color. Also, more people are planting vegetables and herbs; ornamental grasses are more popular as well.

Outdoor living in Texas is almost year round so outdoor rooms have all the luxuries, like televisions and stereos to make the outside just as enjoyable as inside!