|
Friday, 15 June 2007 |
|
In the current age of technology it seems as though everything is going virtual. Gamers have been enjoying the privilege for years, but now architects, pet owners and amusement park enthusiasts are able to enjoy the benefits of taking part in a virtual reality. The question is, can this virtual world really be brought out into the real world to give would-be gardeners and landscapers a much needed helping hand? Can a computer really teach us about our yard?
There are indubitably certain benefits to being able to plot out landscaping ideas on a computer prior to putting them into action. If a fledgling gardener happens to cut down a three hundred year old tree and leave a huge, gaping hole in their front lawn on a computer program it is not nearly the crisis that it would be had they done the same with the three hundred year old willow tree currently spreading its shade across the front yard. With today’s technology it is possible to create an almost perfect virtual replica of a home and the surrounding area, allowing a homeowner to experiment with different landscaping ideas.The use of landscaping software can provide many novice gardeners with a much needed education prior to putting their hands to the soil. They are given an opportunity to explore the benefits of mixing different types of foliage and experiment with the specific angles at which the surrounding shrubbery should be cut without damaging Mother Nature’s creations in a manner that could take months or even years to repair. Even the professional landscaper can benefit from the use of landscaping software. These programs allow for an in-depth analysis of the grade of the land and the best location at which to lay out a garden to ensure that the plants receive the greatest amounts of shade and water. The benefits of these programs extend to young and old, regardless of experience or intent, and may be purchased from many online and in-house retailers. In light of the opportunities presented by the merging of the two realities it would appear that one can safely say that yes, a computer really can teach you about your yard. |
