Formal Planting - Topic 2 (Planting Styles), Element 2

Question 1

What are the key features of formal planting styles?

Answer 1

• Straight lines
• Geometric shapes
• Symmetry
• Formal hedges
• Hedges to restrict planting areas
• Monochromatic or dichromatic planting schemes
• Planting in even numbers
• Formal ponds

These features help distinguish formal gardens from informal ones.

Question 2

What is the significance of symmetry in formal gardens?

Answer 2

Symmetry creates balance and proportion, often represented by reflective or rotational symmetry.

Symmetry has historical roots and is evident in various cultures, including Roman and Islamic gardens.

Question 3

Define a formal hedge.

Answer 3

A formal hedge is characterized by:
* Smooth, uniform surface
* Non-flowering
* Regular pruning regime

Formal hedges serve multiple purposes in garden design.

Question 4

What planting schemes are common in formal gardens?

Answer 4

Monochromatic or dichromatic planting schemes and planting in even numbers.

These schemes enhance the visual impact and order of the garden.

Question 5

Fill in the blank: Formal ponds are always _______.

Answer 5

[geometric, with clearly defined sides].

Question 6

What role do formal hedges play in garden design?

Answer 6

• Demarcation point
• Screen
• Windbreak

Formal hedges are often used to restrict planting areas, especially in parterres and knot gardens.

Question 7

True or False: Curved paths are a typical feature of formal gardens.

Answer 7

False

Question 8

List some characteristics of modern formal garden design.

Answer 8

• Restrained colour palette
• Repeated planting
• Symmetry
• Straight lines
• Use of clipped topiary
• Sparse planting

Modern gardens often mix formal and informal elements.

Question 9

What is the historical context behind formal gardens?

Answer 9

Formality was often a deliberate aesthetic choice made by wealthy landowners to project wealth and power.

Historical gardens often reflected the social status of their owners.

Question 10

What are the sustainability impacts of formal lawns?

Answer 10

• Monocultures
• Water management
• Nutrition
• Weed control

These factors can lead to environmental concerns in formal gardening.

Question 11

Fill in the blank: The use of _______ in formal garden design often represents control over nature.

Answer 11

[straight lines and tight symmetry].

Question 12

What type of planting scheme is often seen at garden entrances in formal gardens?

Answer 12

Planting in multiples of two.

This technique enhances symmetry and visual appeal.

Question 13

How do formal gardens present living histories?

Answer 13

They represent the past through interactive engagement, showcasing historical features and cultural heritage.

Examples include historical gardens like those at Stowe Gardens and Kenilworth.

Question 14

What is the spiritual significance of formal ponds in gardens?

Answer 14

In Japanese and Islamic gardens, formal ponds represent a portal to the afterlife.

This reflects deeper cultural meanings associated with water features.

Question 15

What does the concept of dominance over nature imply in formal garden design?

Answer 15

It involves projecting control through features like clipped hedges, manicured lawns, and arranged plantings.

This theme is prevalent in various formal garden designs.

Question 16

What are the implications of replacing straight paths with curved paths in formal gardens?

Answer 16

Curved paths would clash with formal features, leading to a more relaxed but informal feel.

This can disrupt the intended formality of the design.