Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of software we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to Landscaping Software.

Ratings

Aesthetic Appeal

Landscaping software should be simple for anyone to use, even a computer novice.

Ease of Use

The list of the landscaping software's tools and unique attributes.

Features & Tools

The landscaping software should be easy to set up, and the manufacturer should offer free help for those who need installation assistance.

Support & Documentation

The landscaping help section should be easy to navigate and should offer an intuitive search tool so you can find specific answers quickly.

Features & Tools

Video Tutorials

Brief videos that teach how to use complex landscape software features and walk you through landscape tasks.

2D Design

Load a digital photo of your home and yard into the landscaping software, then use the landscaping software to plan your landscape around it.

2D Photo Import

Walk or fly through your landscape design to see it from several perspectives.

2D Plants

Access a vast amount of plant information from inside your landscaping software so you can make specific foliage choices.

Print 2D

The landscaping software includes a map of hardiness zones that predict how a particular plant will do in a specific geographical region (based on temperature and other environmental factors).

3D Design

Plant and landscape objects (driveway, patio furniture, etc) are displayed before you paste them into your landscape design; you don't have to select items from blindly lists, but from images.

3D Object Editing

The landscape program prepares a plants and materials list, printable for easy estimating or shopping.

3D Object Import

The landscape design program will allow you to print your finished landscape as either a front-view version or an overhead version.

3D Walkthrough

The final version of your landscape design is displayed in a life-like rendering. This is not photo quality but is crystal clear—you'll see exactly what your yard would look like.

3D Flyaround (aerial views)

The program allows you to search plants by name; some landscape programs allow you to also search by plant hardiness criteria.

3D Plants

The program displays plants at various ages-when young and into the future—5 years, 10 years or even 30 years so you can see how your landscape will evolve.

Print 3D

Some landscape design programs offer a plethora of lighting options for your yard; Some allow you to preview lighting effects and contrast between bright to dim settings.

Set Camera View Angles

You can view your landscape design in a daylight setting.

Wireframe/Glass House Views

View your landscape design in a nighttime setting.

Create Custom Animations

This tool will cast shadows upon your objects or plants based on settings you input into the program (location and time of day) so you can adjust the design to meet your natural lighting goals.

Lighting Simulation

Examples of gardens and garden layouts are included with the landscape design program.

Shadow Simulation

Include deck and patio plans in your landscape design.

Plant Encyclopedia

View your landscape design with shade marked so you can get a feel for where shade will fall on your landscape.

Hardiness Zone Maps

You can add a sprinkler system to your design.

Plant, Object Library

Include these landscape structures in your landscape design.

Plant Editor

Add these basic landscape elements to your landscape design.

Plant Search

Add exterior landscape items like patio furniture, dog houses, swing sets, benches, etc.

Plant Growth Simulation

Customize landscape objects by changing the color and size to fit your needs.

Plant Scaling

You can view your design in 2-D or bring your design to life by viewing it in 3-D. Then take a tour of your design by walking around or through it.

Free Form Tool

Scan an image directly into the program using the landscape design software.

Topography Designer

This allows you to draw pools or planting areas freehand, any size or shape; you're not restricted to default shapes.

Deck Designer

You can alter the ratio or scale size of your landscape design to make it easier to work with, view or print.

Fence Designer

You can zoom in or out for greater clarity and ease when working with your landscape design.

Support / Documentation

Video Tutorials

The landscape design manufacturer is available to answer questions by email.

Paper Manual

The manufacturer offers a free telephone help number for landscape design software owners.

Online Manual

The manufacturer offers a telephone help number for landscape design software owners.

FAQ

The landscape design manufacturer website offers an online discussion for landscape design software owners to discuss common concerns, ideas or discoveries.

Community Forums

The landscape design manufacturer website contains a searchable database for landscape design software owners.

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