Foundations of Residential Landscaping and Garden Care

A beautiful garden rarely happens by accident. Behind every healthy lawn and thriving border planting lies a coherent set of decisions about soil chemistry, plant-climate compatibility, drainage, and long-term maintenance rhythms. Many homeowners and aspiring landscapers learn by trial and error, losing plants and money because foundational concepts were never clearly explained. This course changes that. By the end of this course you will be able to read a residential site for its soil type, drainage patterns, sun exposure, and microclimates; select plants suited to those conditions; understand the growth cycles and pruning needs of common landscape species; and sketch a simple planting plan with appropriate spacing, layering, and seasonal interest. What you will learn: - Soil science basics: texture, pH, organic matter, and how to improve fertility - Plant selection criteria: hardiness zones, water requirements, and design intent - Principles of landscape design: rhythm, focal points, color, and scale - Lawn care fundamentals: mowing heights, fertilization schedules, and weed identification - Pruning theory: timing, tools, and techniques for shrubs, trees, and perennials - Irrigation principles: how to match watering schedules to soil type and plant need - Recognizing common pests and diseases in residential gardens - Seasonal maintenance calendars: what to do when throughout the growing year The course is organized into eight thematic modules. Each module opens with a concise reading that introduces key concepts, followed by annotated plant and soil diagrams, worked examples from real residential projects, and a short reflection prompt that asks you to apply ideas to a real or imagined garden. Templates for a seasonal maintenance checklist and a basic planting plan worksheet are included to anchor learning to practical output. This course is designed for homeowners starting their first garden, career-changers considering landscape work, and landscaping assistants who want a firmer theoretical grounding. No prior background in botany or horticulture is required. Please note that this course is educational in nature; local licensing requirements, pesticide application regulations, and trade certification programs vary by jurisdiction and are not covered here — consult your local authority or industry association for guidance on professional practice in your area.