Every novice thinks that horticulture is the essence of landscape design, but it's only one component of many. A good landscape design is the result of a process that progresses through a logical series of steps beginning with site inventory and ending with construction documents. At all times, the designer must keep in mind that his end goal is not just a work of engineering, architecture or horticulture... but one of ART. ...Not fine art--which can be impractical and vain--but of functional, useful art. It must make sense! Because the work of art must be maintained throughout its life, the design process must take into account its long term maintenance considerations. Truthfully, it is doubtful that anyone could become an "expert" at creating their first landscape design. Without experience, it would be difficult to have fluent understanding of the number of materials and processes that were involved. The good news is that one can get help, and a landscape can fall short of perfection and still be wonderful! Many people focus and obsess predominantly on the horticultural aspect of landscape design, pay minimal attention to the rest and are quite content. But paying attention also to the architectural and engineering aspects of the design will produce the best result. As a person controlling the artistic results of a landscape design, it is more important to make practical problem-solving always look good than it is to have flashes of brilliance and the ability to create inspiring fine art. However, having that ability, too, does not hurt! An important aspect of creating a landscape design is the ability to draw. Drawing & sketching on a scale plan is how you'll work out ideas and then save them for eventual implementation. Unless you already have experience with computer drawing, it will probably be more intuitive and productive to work with paper, pencil and tracing paper. While you can work at whatever scale suits, 1" = 8' is probably one that will be manageable and allow for sufficient detail. Change scales to suit your needs. Begin by creating a base plan that shows property boundaries and existing permanent features. Indicate the direction North. Use copies of this plan as the basis for the other plans that build on and eminate from it. What will be immensely helpful to you is to begin an immediate study and observation of landscapes built by others. It'll not only help you develop a knack for discerning between what works, looks good and what doesn't, it'll also save you from "re-inventing the wheel." While botanical and other gardens can help you see what's available for the working "pallette," it is finished landscapes that will give you practical ideas. Everywhere you go, start observing how the world is put together. Visiting remarkable sites where landscape design is highly regarded will be beneficial. (Williamsburg, Va. is an example of one that was inspirational for me.) While nothing can take the place of personal visits, studying landscape design in photographs will help. One tip: never hesitate to seek constructive criticism on anything that you're less than 100% sure about. Develop the ability to manage the criticism. (Not all "constructive" criticism will be constructive, valid or useful.) Design process organization (not every aspect of this would be highly formalized for someone doing their own work; some components would be optional) (tab indent formatting did not carry through but, hopefully, you can make sense of the list anyway.): inventory analysis design concept / master plan hardscape design (construction drawings & specs.) Engineering earthworks and grading retaining walls, steps & railings hydrology... water flow and drainage utility routing Architecture siting of architectural structures paving... soft and hard... walks, drives, patio and utility decks... above grade floor surfaces free-standing walls ighting water features entertainment and recreational features audio sound furniture plant support structures shelter from climate and sun art display view & privacy screening physical barriers & security features planting design (construction drawings & specs.) Horticulture plant materials plant maintenance considerations planting containers plant maintenance specifications (these are usually worked out by the owners as they do the maintenance but must be considered as the design develops.)

Looks great.As for Your Basil question,You can cut it back to about 6" or so & it will sprout new growth in a week or two.I don't know if You get freezes in Your area,but You could take some cuttings of the Basil & stick them in a glass of water.They will root in no time & then You can pot it up for Winter use. Also for Your shallots,I'm guessing if they havent bulbed by now,You could just wait & see if they bulb in the Spring.Did You grow them from seed?I think You were a little late planting them in March,as I think most onions need to be in the ground by the end of the Year.Hope this helps & best of luck

Plumeria bloom on their own schedule. There have been many attempts to promote blooming by natural and artificial means, but I am not aware of any method to stimulate blooming that does not have potential side effects to the plant. It is still early in the season, let's see what the next month brings. Mike

Those are flea beetles and the tiny holes in the leaves are flea beetle damage. The yellow/brown leaves is Early Blight. Remove the leaves, bag 'em and toss in the garbage can. Some people spray (Daconil seems most popular) - there is quite a bit of discussion about the application.timing, etc. within these forums.