Softscape & Planting
1. Palms
a. Planting
- Excavation: Excavate pits as per dimensions specified in approved shop drawings (typically 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 m for palms).
- Crushed Stone Aggregates Laying: Place a geotextile fabric at the base with a 20 cm drainage gravel layer on top. Add another layer of geotextile fabric above the gravel to prevent soil mixing.
- Backfilling: Backfill with sweet soil and planting medium from approved sources, compacting every 300 mm using water saturation to settle the soil and remove air pockets.
- Anchoring System: Palms may be supported by tree stakes or temporary anchoring systems to stabilize them until roots are well-established.
b. Trimming and Maintenance
- Trimming: Trim lower fronds and remove dead or damaged leaves as required to promote healthy growth. Remove fruit stalks as necessary.
- Maintenance: Regularly apply fungicide and insecticide. Ensure irrigation is adequate to maintain soil moisture.
2. Trees
a. Planting
- Excavation: Dig tree pits according to dimensions in approved drawings (e.g., 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 m).
- Crushed Stone Aggregates Laying: Lay a drainage layer similar to palms with geotextile fabric on both sides of the gravel.
- Root Barrier Installation: Install a root barrier if required, especially for species with invasive root systems.
- Backfilling: Use an approved planting medium mixed with organic compost, slow-release fertilizer, and moisture-retaining additives. Compact with water to remove air pockets.
- Anchoring System: Trees are supported with wooden stakes driven into the ground, tied with adjustable rubber tree ties. Inspect and adjust regularly to prevent trunk damage.
3. Shrubs
a. Planting
- Soil Preparation: Prepare shrub beds by excavating to a depth of 500 mm, as shown on approved landscape drawings.
- Backfilling: Fill beds with planting medium containing 50% peat moss, compost, and fertilizer. Compact the soil using water saturation.
- Spacing: Plant shrubs according to spacing specifications on shop drawings, maintaining a setback from hardscape elements
B. Trimming
- Trimming: Prune shrubs regularly to maintain shape and promote bushier growth. Remove dead or diseased branches.
- Maintenance: Irrigate and fertilize as per requirements for each species. Mulch may be added around the base to retain moisture
4. Ground Covers
a. Planting
- Soil Preparation: Excavate to a depth of 300 mm and backfill with a light planting medium for ground covers.
- Installation: Plant ground covers closely to cover the soil surface evenly, following the spacing guidelines on the approved drawings.
b. Trimming and Maintenance
- Trimming: Trim back any overgrown areas to maintain uniformity and prevent encroachment onto walkways or other planting beds.
- Maintenance: Regular irrigation and weeding are essential. Monitor for pests and apply treatments if necessary.
5. Grass
a. Planting
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the ground by leveling it to ensure smooth grading, then place a 10 cm layer of planting soil.
- Installation: Lay grass sods or seed according to the landscape design. Press down gently to ensure root-soil contact.
b. Trimming and Maintenance
- Mowing: Mow the grass regularly to maintain an even height, usually between 25 to 50 mm, depending on the type of grass.
- Maintenance: Irrigate deeply and regularly, especially after planting, to promote root establishment. Fertilize as needed.
6. Succulents
a. Planting
- Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-draining, as succulents require minimal water. Incorporate a mix of sand or gravel for enhanced drainage.
- Spacing: Plant succulents with enough spacing to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to rot
b. Trimming and Maintenance
- Trimming: Prune off any dead or withered parts as necessary.
- Maintenance: Succulents require minimal watering. Water sparingly, only when the soil is dry. Ensure they receive adequate sunlight if planted outdoors
7. Climbers
a. Planting
- Soil Preparation: Prepare a planting pit or trench depending on the climber’s size, ensuring good drainage.
- Installation: Plant climbers at the base of structures or supports and train them to grow along trellises, arbors, or walls.
b. Trimming and Maintenance
- Trimming: Prune climbers to control growth and direct them along the support structure. Remove dead or diseased stems.
- Maintenance: Monitor and tie branches as needed to the support structure. Regular irrigation is required, but avoid overwatering.
8. Special Types of Trees and Plants
a. Planting
- Excavation and Preparation: Follow custom specifications as required for special trees or plants, including larger excavation pits or specific soil amendments.
- Anchoring and Support: For large or rare species, an advanced anchoring system such as metal tree stakes or custom supports may be used. Ensure the anchoring system does not damage the trunk.
- Backfilling and Soil Additives: Backfill with a specialized planting medium as per plant species requirements. Some special plants may need added organic matter or specific soil pH adjustments
b. Trimming and Maintenance
- Trimming: Prune only as needed and according to species requirements, taking care not to stress or damage the plant.
- Maintenance: Apply fertilizers, adjust irrigation, and monitor for any signs of disease or stress.