Formal Flashcards
(13 cards)
What are the opportunities of formal gardens?
Formal gardens are reliably balanced and harmonious, can recreate historic settings, allow for artistic and architectural expression, provide a controlled and ordered landscape, can benefit biodiversity if designed carefully, are adaptable to space, and offer seasonal/year-round interest.
Formal gardens often feature symmetry, repetition, and controlled aesthetics that create cohesive settings.
What are the limitations of formal gardens?
Limited diversity of planting, lack of wildlife value, can feel less immersive, high maintenance, no spontaneous growth, reliance on irrigation, need for fertilizers and pesticides, lack of sustainability, vulnerability to diseases, high costs, and less adaptability to climate change.
These limitations can affect both the aesthetic appeal and ecological value of formal gardens.
What key characteristics define a formal garden design?
Key characteristics include:
* Symmetry & Balance
* Geometric patterns
* Defined pathways & borders
* Use of evergreens
* Colour coordination of flowers
* Manicured lawns and hedges
* Central features like fountains and statues
* Classical & historical context
Formal gardens often draw inspiration from European styles such as French and Italian.
Fill in the blank: A formal garden design is built around balance, symmetry, straight lines, and _______.
[geometric shapes]
What are common plants used for clipped hedges in formal gardens?
Common plants include:
* Buxus sempervirens
* Taxus baccata
* Carpinus betulus
* Fagus sylvatica
* Ilex aquifolium
These plants are often chosen for their ability to be shaped into formal structures.
What are some materials commonly used in hard landscaping for formal gardens?
Common materials include:
* Paving
* Planters
* Pots
* Seats
* Plant supports
Consistency in the use of these materials helps unify different elements of the garden.
True or False: Formal gardens are generally more sustainable than other garden styles.
False
Formal gardens are often less sustainable due to restricted planting palettes and an emphasis on hard landscaping.
What practices can make formal gardens more sustainable?
Sustainable practices include:
* Using little concrete or substitutes
* Installing local, reclaimed, or sustainable materials
* Planting predominantly natives in the right place
* Buying local from specialist growers
* Planting for wildlife
* Planting to reduce air pollution
The concept of ‘Eco-Formal’ combines a formal design with environmentally beneficial practices.
What are the health and safety considerations in maintaining formal gardens?
Considerations include:
* Risks from trimming & pruning
* Heavy lifting injuries
* Slippery paths
* Use of chemicals for pest control
Adhering to health and safety legislation is crucial in maintaining a safe working environment.
What is the significance of equality and diversity in formal gardens?
Significance includes:
* Telling stories related to colonial history
* Ensuring diverse perspectives are represented
* Improving accessibility for all visitors
This ensures that formal gardens are inclusive and welcoming to a broader audience.
Name two formal gardens located in the UK.
Two formal gardens in the UK are:
* Leven’s Hall, Cumbria
* Kew Gardens, London
These gardens exemplify the characteristics and design principles of formal gardens.
