Puutarhataide

Puutarhataide is the field that blends art, design and horticulture to shape outdoor spaces that are visually pleasing and engaging. It focuses on the aesthetic organization of land, plants and built elements to create harmony, balance and rhythm in gardens, parks and other landscapes. Key elements include layout, form, color, texture, materials, as well as sculpture, water features and lighting, all coordinated with plant selection and seasonal change.

Puutarhataide encompasses several practices, including planting design, hard-scape design (paths, terraces, walls), garden sculpture and ornaments, topiary, and seasonal planting schemes. It often involves collaboration among landscape designers, horticulturists and artists, and it can be applied to private gardens, public spaces, schools and municipal parks.

Historically, puutarhataide draws on classical and European garden traditions and has evolved with the rise of landscape architecture in the 20th century. Contemporary practice emphasizes sustainability, ecological balance, native plants, and climate-adapted design, aiming for beauty alongside functionality and low environmental impact.

Education and profession: specialists may be trained in landscape architecture or garden design, with training in design methods, plant knowledge, materials, and maintenance planning. Practitioners produce concept plans, planting plans, material specifications and maintenance guidance to realize and sustain garden spaces.