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Beginner's Guide to Garden Design

4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 260 ratings
see reviews
Stewart Roberts

This course is for people that wish to acquire a good basic knowledge of garden design using professional techniques and handouts that are easy to understand.

The course uses the Principles of Garden Design and is presented by Dean Blunkell a qualified Garden Design Tutor, the methods he uses are comparable to learning Garden Design in a classroom space with all the extra resources and knowledge you will need to achieve this.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will have an understanding of garden design graphics and how to apply them to a garden design plan
  • It will develop your knowledge of the principles of garden design and how to apply them to a garden plan

Syllabus

Outlines the elements that Students will learn throughout this course.

First Assignment, Garden Critique
Introduction

Section One talks about the Principles of Good Garden Design.

Read more

This additional video lecture will take you through a site survey and the best options to carry out one

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores principles of garden design, which is standard in the industry
Teaches skills that are highly relevant to practicing garden designers
Develops skills and knowledge for designing gardens
Taught by Dean Blunkell, a qualified Garden Design Tutor
Examines a variety of aspects within garden design, which is comprehensive

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Clear & practical garden design basics

According to learners, the "Beginner's Guide to Garden Design" is an exceptionally clear and practical guide for those new to the field. Students consistently praise the instructor's knowledge and engaging teaching style, making complex ideas easy to understand and apply. The course's structured content and practical assignments, along with useful handouts, are frequently highlighted as significant strengths. While it serves as a solid starting point for beginners, some learners with prior experience found it a bit basic or expressed a desire for more coverage on modern design software, as it primarily focuses on manual drawing techniques. The course's quality appears consistent across recent reviews, indicating ongoing relevance.
Accompanying handouts and bonus content are highly valued.
"The handouts are super useful and I refer to them often."
"The site survey bonus lecture was a real gem and very practical."
"The handouts are a fantastic resource."
Instructor Dean Blunkell is highly praised for his teaching.
"The instructor is very knowledgeable and passionate about garden design."
"Dean is a great teacher – very encouraging and clear."
"The instructor's teaching style is engaging, and the content on understanding scale and zoning was particularly enlightening."
Focuses on applying design principles through practical tasks.
"I particularly loved the practical assignments that allowed me to apply the principles directly to my own garden."
"I now feel confident to tackle my own garden project."
"The visual examples and the detailed explanations of hard/soft landscaping graphics were incredibly helpful. I can now sketch out designs with confidence."
Excellent for novices, breaking down complex design principles.
"Dean's explanations were incredibly clear and easy to follow. Highly recommend for anyone starting out!"
"Excellent course for true beginners! Dean breaks down complex ideas into manageable pieces."
"As a complete novice, this course was perfect! I learned so much about the fundamentals of design, not just planting."
Course focuses on traditional hand-drawing techniques.
"While it's a 'Beginner's Guide,' I felt some of the graphics sections were a bit rushed. The course primarily focuses on manual drawing, which might not be for everyone in today's digital age."
"I wished for more modern tools or software guidance."
"It's okay if you like traditional methods, but I was hoping for more on digital tools."
Best suited for absolute novices, may be basic for others.
"Decent course, but I felt some parts were a bit basic for my needs, as I had some prior knowledge."
"My only minor critique is that sometimes I wished for a bit more advanced content or case studies once the basics were covered, but then again, it is a 'Beginner's Guide'."
"It definitely covers the fundamentals well, just not for someone looking to deepen existing skills."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Beginner's Guide to Garden Design with these activities:
Form a Study Group with Fellow Students
Enhance your understanding and retention by forming a study group with fellow students to discuss course concepts, share insights, and support each other's learning.
Browse courses on Garden Design
Show steps
  • Connect with other students taking the same course.
  • Schedule regular study sessions to meet and discuss course materials.
  • Prepare questions, share notes, and engage in group discussions.
Follow Tutorials on Principles of Garden Design
Expand your understanding of garden design principles by following online tutorials and practicing their application.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on the principles of garden design.
  • Follow the tutorials and take notes on key concepts.
  • Apply the principles learned in your garden design plans.
Practice Garden Design Graphics
Practice creating garden design graphics to familiarize yourself with the techniques and concepts used in professional garden design.
Show steps
  • Review the provided handouts on garden design graphics.
  • Use the handouts to create your own garden design graphics using a grid and scale.
  • Experiment with different pens and techniques to create 3D plan graphics.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Volunteer at a Botanical Garden or Arboretum
Gain hands-on experience and learn from professionals by volunteering at a botanical garden or arboretum.
Browse courses on Garden Design
Show steps
  • Contact local botanical gardens or arboretums to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend an orientation and training program.
  • Assist with garden maintenance, plant care, or educational programs.
Review 'The Garden Design Book' by John Brookes
Gain in-depth insights into garden design by reading and reviewing this comprehensive book covering various aspects of the subject.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of 'The Garden Design Book' by John Brookes.
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting important points.
  • Summarize key concepts and principles discussed in the book.
Review 'Garden Design Masterclass' by Mary Keen
Expand your knowledge and refine your design skills by reviewing this comprehensive guide on garden design techniques and principles.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Garden Design Masterclass' by Mary Keen.
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
  • Apply the principles and techniques discussed in your own garden design projects.
Attend a Garden Design Workshop
Enhance your practical skills and learn from experts by attending a workshop focused on garden design.
Browse courses on Garden Design
Show steps
  • Research and find a reputable garden design workshop.
  • Register for the workshop and make necessary arrangements.
  • Attend the workshop, participate actively, and take notes.
Create a Garden Design Plan for a Specific Site
Apply your knowledge and skills to create a comprehensive garden design plan for a specific site, considering factors such as aspect, location, and functionality.
Browse courses on Garden Design
Show steps
  • Select a site for your garden design plan.
  • Conduct a site survey, including measurements and photographs.
  • Develop a concept plan, including planting and hardscaping elements.
  • Create a detailed planting plan, including plant species, quantities, and locations.
  • Produce a final presentation package, including drawings and specifications.

Career center

Learners who complete Beginner's Guide to Garden Design will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Landscape Architect
Landscape Architects design outdoor spaces, blending nature and construction to create beautiful and functional landscapes. This course provides a solid foundation for those who wish to pursue a career in this field. It introduces the principles of garden design, techniques for creating landscape plans, and the use of graphics to communicate design ideas. With a fit score of 100, this course is highly recommended for aspiring Landscape Architects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect
Garden Designer
Garden Designers create and maintain outdoor spaces, including gardens, parks, and other green spaces. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of garden design, equipping individuals with the skills to design and implement beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. With a fit score of 100, this course is highly recommended for aspiring Garden Designers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Garden Designer
Horticulturist
Horticulturists study and cultivate plants, working in various settings such as gardens, nurseries, and research institutions. This course provides a foundation in the principles of garden design, which can be beneficial for Horticulturists who wish to specialize in landscape design. With a fit score of 75, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Horticulture.
See salaries and explore the career path for Horticulturist
Landscape Contractor
Landscape Contractors oversee the construction and maintenance of outdoor spaces, including gardens, parks, and other green spaces. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can help Landscape Contractors create and maintain beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. With a fit score of 75, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Landscape Contracting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Contractor
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans and policies for the development and use of land in urban areas. This course provides a foundation in the principles of garden design, which can be beneficial for Urban Planners who wish to specialize in park and recreation planning. With a fit score of 70, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Urban Planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Consultants provide advice and guidance on environmental issues to businesses, governments, and individuals. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can help Environmental Consultants design and implement sustainable landscaping solutions. With a fit score of 70, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Environmental Consulting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. This course provides a foundation in the principles of garden design, which can be beneficial for Real Estate Agents who wish to specialize in the sale of properties with outdoor spaces. With a fit score of 60, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Real Estate.
See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Agent
Architect
Architects design and oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can be beneficial for Architects who wish to design buildings with integrated outdoor spaces. With a fit score of 60, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Architecture.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architect
Interior designer
Interior Designers create and design the interiors of buildings, including homes, offices, and other commercial spaces. This course provides a foundation in the principles of garden design, which can be beneficial for Interior Designers who wish to specialize in the design of outdoor spaces. With a fit score of 55, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Interior Design.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer
Event Planner
Event Planners plan and coordinate events, such as weddings, parties, and conferences. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can be beneficial for Event Planners who wish to specialize in planning outdoor events. With a fit score of 55, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Event Planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Event Planner
Property Manager
Property Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of residential and commercial properties. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can be beneficial for Property Managers who wish to maintain and improve the outdoor spaces of their properties. With a fit score of 50, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Property Management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Property Manager
Teacher
Teachers educate students at all levels, from elementary school to college. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can be beneficial for Teachers who wish to incorporate outdoor learning into their curriculum. With a fit score of 50, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Teaching.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. This course provides a foundation in graphic design principles, which can be beneficial for Graphic Designers who wish to specialize in the design of garden plans and other landscape-related graphics. With a fit score of 45, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Graphic Design.
See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic Designer
Landscape Ecologist
Landscape Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment, focusing on the spatial and temporal aspects of these interactions. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can be beneficial for Landscape Ecologists who wish to design and manage landscapes for ecological sustainability. With a fit score of 45, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Landscape Ecology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Ecologist
Soil Scientist
Soil Scientists study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils, and how these properties affect plant growth and environmental quality. This course provides a good understanding of the principles and practices of garden design, which can be beneficial for Soil Scientists who wish to design and manage landscapes for optimal soil health. With a fit score of 40, this course may be useful for individuals interested in pursuing a career in Soil Science.
See salaries and explore the career path for Soil Scientist

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Beginner's Guide to Garden Design.
Cover image
Nature into Art
Save
This massive volume is the definitive reference on garden design. It includes everything you need to know about planning, planting, and maintaining a garden, with over 4,000 photographs and illustrations.
Nature into Art: The Gardens of Wave Hill
Hardcover
$$
An historical and critical enquiry into the nature...
Leather Bound
$$$
Nature into Art: The Gardens of Wave Hill
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Earth User's Guide to Teaching Permaculture
Save
This classic work on garden design explores the principles of good design and how to apply them to your own garden. It must-read for anyone interested in learning more about garden design.
Earth User's Guide to Teaching Permaculture
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The Suburban Gardener, and Villa Companion
Save
This influential work on garden design was first published in 1842 and remains a valuable resource for gardeners today. It covers a wide range of topics, from the history of garden design to the practicalities of planting and maintenance.
The Suburban Gardener, and Villa Companion:...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
In Tearing Haste
Save
This comprehensive companion to garden design covers everything from the history of garden design to the practicalities of planting and maintenance. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about garden design.
In Tearing Haste: Letters between Deborah...
Hardcover
$$
In Tearing Haste: Letters between Deborah...
Paperback
$$
In Tearing Haste: Letters between Deborah...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Gardening All-in-One For Dummies
Save
This user-friendly guide to garden design is perfect for beginners. It covers everything from planning and planting to maintenance and troubleshooting.
Gardening All-in-One For Dummies
Paperback
Check
Gardening All-in-One For Dummies
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Landscape Architecture 5E (PB)
Save
This comprehensive handbook covers everything from the history of landscape architecture to the practicalities of planning and design. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about landscape architecture.
Landscape Architecture 5E (PB)
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
The Planting Design Handbook
Save
This practical guide to planting design covers everything from choosing plants to creating planting plans. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about planting design.
The Planting Design Handbook
Hardcover
$$$
The Planting Design Handbook
Hardcover
$$
The Planting Design Handbook
Hardcover
$$$
The Planting Design Handbook
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Hillier Manual of Trees & Shrubs
Save
This comprehensive guide to trees and shrubs valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these plants. It covers a wide range of topics, from identification and cultivation to pests and diseases.
The Hillier Manual of Trees & Shrubs
Paperback
Check
The Hillier Manual of Trees & Shrubs
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
RHS What Plant Where Encyclopedia
Save
This comprehensive encyclopedia of plants and flowers valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these plants. It covers a wide range of topics, from identification and cultivation to pests and diseases.
Rhs What Plant Where Encyclopedia
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Botany for Gardeners, Fourth Edition
Save
This introductory guide to botany valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the science of plants. It covers a wide range of topics, from plant structure and function to genetics and evolution.
Botany for Gardeners, Fourth Edition: An...
Paperback
$$
Botany for Gardeners, Fourth Edition: An...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Management of Carbon Sequestration in Soil
Save
This comprehensive guide to soil science and management valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the science of soil. It covers a wide range of topics, from soil properties and classification to soil fertility and management.
Management of Carbon Sequestration in Soil
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Sustainable Landscape Management
Save
This comprehensive guide to sustainable landscape design valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the principles and practices of sustainable landscaping. It covers a wide range of topics, from site assessment and planning to plant selection and maintenance.
Sustainable Landscape Management: Design,...
Hardcover
$$$
Sustainable Landscape Management: Design,...
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Rating
4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
2 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Stewart Roberts
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores principles of garden design, which is standard in the industry
Teaches skills that are highly relevant to practicing garden designers
Develops skills and knowledge for designing gardens
Taught by Dean Blunkell, a qualified Garden Design Tutor
Examines a variety of aspects within garden design, which is comprehensive
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