Ruderal picturesque

Abstract

This thesis explores the potential for “ruderal” vegetation to be used in a new approach to landscape design. The process of early-secondary plant succession is explored as an opportunity in the practice of naturalistic planting design within the context of Georgia Piedmont disturbed landscapes. A contemporary interpretation of picturesque aesthetic principles is synthesized to facilitate an argument for the representation and utilization of ruderal species. Ecological classifications of ruderal plant associations were established from an unpublished subset of the Natureserve (2015) database, and three corresponding landscape design typologies were developed: (1) meadow/grassland, (2) woodland, and (3) forest. Direct observation was used to identify typologies within the established aesthetic framework termed “contemporary picturesque” and photographs and drawings are presented to illustrate this empirical process. Projective design was used to test and conceptualize ruderal planting design – or successional planting. Implementation and management strategies are proposed for the broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus) ruderal grassland typology.