Engineering uses of plant materials on a residential site include controlling erosion, directing pedestrian and vehicular circulation, and screening glare from reflective surfaces. A mass of low plants can contain people on the walk as well as reinforce the direction of movement (Figure 11—47). Controlling Erosion Plant materials can be used on steep slopes or areas of loose soil to minimize erosion. Plant materials can be used on
ni
Figure 11-46
Plant materials can complement or contrast the architectural style of the house. However, plants should not crowd the driveway in such a way as to hinder the opening of car doors, or the removal and piling of snow in northern climates. A similar use of plants is along the driveway to keep vehicles on the driveway surface (Figure 11—48). Glare is eliminated when the sun cannot strike the reflective surface directly. Contrasting horizontal lines
loose soil or slopes up to 2:1 or 50 percent in steepness. Glare can also be screened when plant materials are placed between the reflective surface and the viewer (Figure 11—49). One good application of this is along the front entrance walk leading from the driveway to the outdoor entry foyer. One way is to shade reflective surfaces such as cars or water. Ground covers and plants with dense root systems are especially valuable because their roots hold the soil in place.
