Planting Design

Plants do more work than most people realize. They screen and buffer, manage stormwater, stabilize slopes, restore ecosystems, and define the character of a space — all while requiring ongoing maintenance from the people responsible for them. DLZ’s planting design accounts for all of that, developing long-term landscape solutions that balance aesthetic goals with site conditions, sustainability, and the real-world maintenance capabilities of each client.

Because DLZ takes projects from conception through construction, planting design decisions are made with full awareness of what’s buildable, what’s maintainable, and what will perform over time. Strong design capabilities and extensive project experience allow us to achieve outcomes that are visually compelling, ecologically sound, and built to last.

Featured Capabilities

Traditional Site Plantings

Parking perimeters, screening buffers, foundation plantings, and ordinance compliance requirements are the backbone of most site planting programs. DLZ develops solutions that meet regulatory requirements while contributing to the overall character and function of the site.

Streetscape Plantings

Street trees, planters, and bump out plantings bring life to urban corridors and pedestrian environments. DLZ designs streetscape planting programs that enhance walkability, reinforce community character, and create inviting public spaces.

Green Infrastructure

Bioswales and rain gardens do double duty, managing stormwater while contributing to the landscape. DLZ designs green infrastructure solutions that meet regulatory requirements, support sustainability goals, and integrate naturally into the site design.

Environmental Restoration

Disturbed sites and degraded ecosystems need more than planting — they need a plan. DLZ develops environmental restoration solutions including mitigation plans, native planting areas, and reforestation programs that support long-term ecological recovery and regulatory compliance.

Erosion & Sediment Control

Vegetative stabilization is often the most effective long-term solution for erosion and sediment control. DLZ develops planting-based erosion control plans and manages permitting, with staff holding CPESC and CESSWI certifications to support compliance throughout the project.

Roadside Plantings

Highway, tollway, and median planting projects require solutions that perform under demanding conditions. DLZ designs roadside planting programs that balance aesthetic goals, maintenance requirements, and the operational realities of high-traffic environments.

Related Work

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some of our planting design experts.