In-Ground Planting Area

See Benefits of Plantings in the ROW in the Introduction

• Plants add character to a plaza and provide secondary environmental benefits
• Plazas provide more room for planting and allow for a greater diversity of plants

See General Guidelines

• Account for existing and proposed pedestrian circulation, especially major desire lines to crosswalks, building entrances, and pedestrian generators such as transit connections
• Plazas should maintain a feeling of openness; plantings should not block critical sight lines
• Proximity to vehicular traffic and pedestrian circulation will impact the size and shape of the planting areas
• Positive drainage must be established in all planting areas
• Consider worker access to the plantings for regular maintenance activities; access to a water source for irrigation should be provided
• Any plantings not maintained by DOT, DEP, or Parks will require a maintenance agreement

• Plantings must be considered in context of the overall plaza design. See Pedestrian Plaza for design guidance
• Maintain a clear path for any major pedestrian desire lines or defined circulation paths; if the plaza is located in front of a building, provide an additional clear path adjacent to the building
• Provide adequate soil volume/rooting area for plantings; see Soils in General Guidelines
• Design plantings in relation to seating areas or other areas of interest to create or define edges, to add visual interest, to provide shade, and/or to provide other protection for plaza users
• Select plants that provide year-round interest; utilize combinations of plants that have contrasting textures, colors, and forms
• Plant densely to discourage littering, trampling and other improper uses
• Direct stormwater runoff into plantings wherever possible. See Stormwater Management Practices
• In heavily trafficked areas, consider the use of suspended paving systems to maximize circulation while preventing soil compaction. Consider the use of a tree-bed guard where feasible

See Plant Finder